Paintings and fine arts are important to Maryland's cultural heritage. Through the Commission on Artistic Property, the Archives is custodian of two important art collections. The Annapolis Collection documents important events in the state's history and many of its officials. It also contains furniture and other fine and decorative arts that are used in the state's public buildings, including the State House and Government House. The Peabody Art Collection is a unique collection of American and European paintings, sculpture, fine arts, works on paper, and miniatures. 

The Archives' library contains literary works by and about Maryland subjects and authors, including historical works, biography,