The May Brodbeck papers date from 1917 to 2012 and measure 29 linear inches. The papers are divided into six series Biographical (1917-2012), Correspondence (1947-1983), Professional (1971-1983), Publications (1950-1968), Photographs, and Artifacts.

The Biographical series includes Brodbeck’s birth certificate, passport, school transcripts and materials related to her husband Arthur, mother Etta, and brother Philip. The bulk of the series consists of materials related to Brodbeck’s death, including two depositions and correspondence regarding her estate and her will. This series also includes condolences sent to her brother, Philip Selznick, several written tributes to Brodbeck, and receipts for donations to the Universities of Minnesota and Iowa in Brodbeck’s name. The series concludes with remarks from a 2012 celebration of scholars who have held the May Brodbeck Chair of Liberal Arts.

The Correspondence series consists of an address book, scattered personal correspondence, correspondence with Gustav and Leola Bergmann, and correspondence with Sarah Hanley. Most of the Bergman and Hanley correspondence is photocopied from the originals.

The Professional series contains materials related to Brodbeck’s career at the University of Minnesota and the University of Iowa. The University of Minnesota materials include correspondence and newspaper clippings concerning Brodbeck’s appointment as dean of the graduate school, and periodicals published by the University of Minnesota. The University of Iowa materials include correspondence and newspaper clippings regarding Brodbeck’s acceptance of a vice presidential position and her retirement. This series also includes the text of an address Brodbeck gave as president of the American Philosophical Association, Western Division.

The Publications series consists of several essays and books written and edited by Brodbeck from 1950 to 1968.

The Photographs series is ordered alphabetically by subject. It contains several portraits of Brodbeck throughout her life, photographs of May Brodbeck and her husband, Arthur, and a photograph of her grandmother. Besides these, the series also includes pictures of Brodbeck’s home in Minnesota, and of her trips to Europe. The Miscellaneous folder of this series includes artistic photographs of architecture, street scenes, and people.

The Artifacts series contains a plaque designating May Brodbeck as a member of the Presidents Club of The University of Iowa, a paperweight with a miniature replica of an official statement from the State Board of Regents encased within it, several book plates, a paper weight commemorating Brodbeck’s fellowship at the Center for Advance Study in the Behavioral Sciences from 1981-1982, and an address book.