The records consist of research data gathered between 1976 and 1981 and related administrative records. The bulk of the research files are organized according to geographical emphasis. Individual series document sculpture in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, other Michigan cities, the United States in general, and Brazil. The Michigan series is organized by city; the others by the artist, title, or location of the sculpture, according to available information. The general files in each series contain information pertaining to more than one sculpture. Additional information may also be found in the Architect and Miscellaneous Research series.

A typical file concerning a sculpture in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, or Lansing consists of an inventory form with a photograph, correspondence, interview notes, and newspaper clippings. Magazine articles, dedication booklets, exhibition catalogs, and other publications may also be included. Files for other localities are usually limited to published information.

Administrative records include correspondence, proposals, fiscal records, and reports relating to the grants that funded the research, copies of the original guidebook manuscripts, and publicity materials.