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 draft notes for Thayer's work "Under the Cottonwoods." 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 1971-2003.

Contains draft notes of various works by Thayer. Materials pertain to publications, and include consecutive drafts of the work with author's commentary. Also includes correspondence with publishers and responses. Dated circa 1969-1991.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's work "Staver." Work also went by the title "The Summer Hands." 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 1974-1982.

Contains draft notes for Thayer's works, including "The Turtle's Smiles," "Ten Years of Laughter," "Harris," "Kellie," and "The Welcome Home." Other works are included. Materials pertain to the publications, and include drafts of the works and author's commentaries. Also includes correspondence with publishers. Dated circa 1962-2003.