The Gladys Nelson papers date from 1938-1995 and measure 10 linear inches.  The papers are arranged in four scrapbooks dating from 1950-1955, with an additional box of materials dating from 1938-1995. The scrapbooks are loosely arranged chronologically, and include newspaper clippings, correspondence, photographs, programs, brochures, and certificates dating from Nelson's tenure in the legislature. Most of the items in the scrapbooks document legislation Nelson sponsored and her appointments to certain committees. The box of additional materials contains correspondence dating from 1950-1998, Nelson's day planner, legislative handbooks and passports dating from 1938-1982, a genealogy entitled "Brain Family Tree," a memoir written by Gladys Nelson entitled "Born under a Lucky Star," newspaper clippings dating from 1952-1958, programs and brochures dating from 1953-1995, photocopies of the loose scrapbook, and a miscellaneous folder dating from 1953-1965, which includes photographs, certificates and notes.