The collection consists of Subject Files containing correspondence, memoranda, reports, topical files, speeches, newsletters, campaign files, and photographs; and Bill Files. Although there appear to be many gaps in the earlier documentation (and virtually none predating the 1965 session) the collection documents well Anderson's involvement and leadership in virtually every important environmental initiative which took place during his tenure in office. Despite the weakness of the early files on other subjects, there is important documentation on the environmental accomplishments of the 1966 session.

The collection is much less revealing, however, with regard to Anderson's position as speaker. Although there are a few files on committee appointments, staffing, etc., no body of documentation which can be identified as “speaker's files” were transferred to the Historical Society.

The majority of the collection consists of alphabetical SUBJECT FILES pertaining to issues in which Anderson had some interest. These files contain memoranda, correspondence, reports, handwritten notes, and other information. Many of the memoranda are authored by Thomas Loftus, then an Anderson aide, and by members of the Assembly Democratic Caucus, the Legislative Council, and the Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

Correspondence from constituents comprises only a small portion of the collection. What is present dates primarily from the years 1973-1976 and is filed alphabetically within miscellaneous categories preceding the subject files. It is presumed that the remainder of the constituent correspondence was destroyed. Also within the subject files are genre files of newsletters, questionnaires, speeches, press releases, photographs, biographical newspaper clippings and information on Anderson's election campaigns. The photographs include images of Anderson with other legislators and views of waterways and development projects.

The remainder of the collection consists of BILL FILES containing correspondence and informational material distributed by lobbyists, state agencies, and advocacy groups concerning legislation of the 1975-1976 session. These files are arranged by bill number. The contents document only the last session in which Anderson served, and it is likely that earlier bill files were destroyed.