The Papers contain correspondence with literary colleagues and family, most 1960s-1990s; drafts and reviews of novels and short stories, 1960s-2000; writings of others about Bates, most 1980s-1990s; audiocassettes of lectures by Bates about literature, 1960s-1970s, and interviews with him about his life and writings, 1980s; personal papers, including biographical information and legal documents, 1930s-1970s; a few photographs and documents concerning his International Brigade service during the Spanish Civil War; and materials relating to Jonathan Bates's imprisonment in Syria, 1972-1974, including correspondence with American and Syrian officials, legal documents, notes, and clippings.