These papers contain correspondence, clippings, research, and manuscripts related to Jane Jacobs's work as an author and activist. Also included are Jacobs's scrapbooks and date books, photographs, awards and honors, and recordings of interviews and talks.

Much of Jacob's professional life is documented through her correspondence. Items of interest include a letter from President Lyndon Johnson, a note regarding her work from former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and files of critical and fan responses to her books. Her personal life is illustrated by documents including her wedding invitation, high school and secretarial diplomas, passports, and birth and death certificates.

The papers also include photographs of Jane and Bob Jacobs, many of them portraits, and candid shots of Jane at public and private events. These show her enjoying the outdoors, at work at her typewriter, at rallies, and in jail with Susan Sontag. Snapshots with family and friends comprise a significant portion of these materials.