This collection is a subgroup (Program) of the Montana Historical Society records, RS 499. Please see the primary finding aid for more Montana Historical Society records.

Library subgroup includes general correspondence (1874-2003), and outgoing correspondence (1803-1901) predominantly with researchers and donors. Some of the letters include lengthy reminiscences and discussions of historical events. In addition, there are financial records (1870-1956); legal documents (1873-1976) minutes (1874 re the publication of the first volume of the Contributions series; organizational records (1950-1976) including position descriptions, procedures, rules, etc.; a Library Bulletin; (1907-1908) biennial reports (1905-1968); subject files (1928-1997); miscellany, including scrapbooks (1878-1912) compiled by the Library containing letters, and writings concerning historical events and people, political campaigns, etc., and visitor registers (1898-1952); and scrapbooks (1898-1912) of clippings concerning political campaigns and platforms.

The Archives subgroup includes general correspondence (1969-1902); press releases (1969-1988); reports (1972-1995), including Gerald Ham’s report (1972) on the condition of the Archives, a report (1982) on an historical records survey, and a report (1986) on a local government records survey; and subject files (1957-2003).

The Photograph Archives subgroup includes general correspondence (1974-2003), predominantly with researchers and donors. The bulk of the correspondence consists of requests for prints, and permissions to publish. In addition there is a subject file concerning photo displays and grants.

The Oral History subgroup includes interoffice correspondence (1990-1993); general correspondence (1972-1993); legal documents (1982-1992); files on methodology; project files (1981-2005); project resource files; quarterly reports (1884-1992); subject files; writings; and miscellany.

The Library/Archives Division and Research Center subgroup contains materials concerning the program as a whole. Included are interoffice correspondence (1973-2003); general correspondence (1973-2001); financial records (1986-2000); minutes of program managers meetings (1984-2004) and staff meetings (1991-1998); organizational records (1989), consisting of alternative organizational plans; reports (1962-1997), including quarterly reports and reports to the Board of Trustees; subject files (1969-2005); and miscellany.