The Pauline Lyon papers date from 1884 to 1994 and measure 12 linear inches. The papers are arranged in three series: Personal, American Red Cross, and Military.

The Personal series (1884, 1909, 1922-1994 and undated) consists of Lyon's birth announcement, school records, biographical writings, family information, personal correspondence and Christmas letters, and skits and speeches she wrote. Also contained in this series are scrapbooks and photo albums from her youth, a record of her wedding, and many family photographs. The 1884 document is Lyon's father's birth certificate, and the 1909 document is her mother's graduation announcement.

The American Red Cross series (1959-1988 and undated) contains materials from Lyon's American Red Cross experiences.There is general Red Cross information, a listing of her job responsibilities, honors and certifications, newsletters she created and contributed to, and buttons promoting Red Cross blood donation. Correspondence created in her position as director of donor resources is also included.

The Military series (1943-1995 and undated) consists of Lyon's memorabilia about the Navy in World War II and the WAVES inparticular. There are pages of scrapbooks, newsletters, correspondence about naval and WAVES matters, photographs, and recruiting posters. Lyon also taped her memories of her World War II experiences on audiocassette; the tape is included here, as is a videocassette on the history of and war experience at the Ottumwa Naval Air Base.