The Earl E. Harper papers include correspondence, speeches, lecture notes, clippings, and photographs. These papers document Harper's service as director of the School of Fine Arts and director of the Iowa Memorial Union from 1938 to 1963. This collection includes programs of the speakers who appeared at the IMU through the University Lecture Series during these years. Programs for musical entertainment recitals and performances, which were held at the Iowa Memorial Union, are included. Church programs are included on occasions when Harper either conducted a choir or spoke to a congregation.