The Cherry Muhanji  papers date from 1984 to 2006 and measure 5 linear inches.

This collection consists of articles about Muhanji and a 1990 student paper resulting from an interview with Muhanji, personal letters, Muhanji's faculty profile, and her residency schedule.

The Writer series includes an excerpt from Muhanji's dissertation novel, Mama Played First Chair. Also included is a publication of Womanist Theory and Research, which contains an article written by Muhanji. The series also includes documents from several conferences Muhanji attended.

The Photographs series includes a 1988 group shot of Muhanji with writers Alice Walker, Kesho Scott, Egyirba High and others. There is also a photograph of Muhanji with writer Michelle Cliff at Prairie Lights Bookstore in Iowa City, Iowa. Other photographs include Muhanji in Cuba, in Kenya, and with her dissertation committee at the University of Iowa.

There are two videocassettes of Muhanji from her years in Iowa. One documents a presentation by POW (Pissed Off Women), including poetry and performance by Muhanji. The other videocassette records a discussion between Muhanji and other participants discussing the importance of self-identity and experiences of homophobia, racism and sexism.