The collections consists primarily of manuscripts of Thayer's works, including personal notes, publisher/editor corrections and correspondence, and some public response. Also included are various newspaper and magazine articles featuring the author.

Contains possible novel ideas by Douglas Thayer. Materials pertain to the brainstorming, and include drafts of several works with author's commentary. Dated circa 1987-1989.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's work "The Pianist." The work also went by the title "The Good Boy." Materials pertain to the publication, and include consecutive drafts of the work with author's commentary. Also includes correspondence with publishers and responses. Dated circa 1988.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's work "Our Lil." Materials pertain to the publication, and include consecutive drafts of the work with author's commentary. Also includes correspondence with publishers and responses. Dated circa 1988.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's work "The Opening Day." Story also went by "The Ridge." Materials pertain to the publication, and include consecutive drafts of the work with author's commentary. Also includes correspondence with publishers and responses. Dated circa 1962-2009.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's work "Oakhills." Materials pertain to the publication, and include consecutive drafts of the work with author's commentary. Also includes correspondence with publishers and responses. Dated circa 1962-2009.

Contains notecards from Thayer's research. This research pertains to Utah history and nature. Discusses information for his published works, including Germany, hunting, Zarahemla, and other subjects. Dated circa 1962-2009.

Contains a newspaper article discussing a review of Thayer's life and works. Dated 1990.