The Jane Burleson papers date from 1931 to 1998 and measure 2.5 linear inches. The papers consist primarily of photocopied items and comprise biographical material, awards and honors, material relating to Fort Dodge African-American history, Fort Dodge City Council material, and photographs.

The Biographical material (1956-1998 and undated) contains newspaper clippings, funeral programs for Burleson's mother and son, photographs of Burleson and her grandchildren, and a draft of Burleson's biography submitted to Who's Who Among African Americans.

The Awards and honors (1973-1996) include awards and certificates Burleson received for her work with the union, the city of Fort Dodge, and her church.

The material pertaining to Fort Dodge African-American history (1991, 1997, and undated) consists of images from a collection that documents Fort Dodge history (William Sayles Doan, A Book of Days, Fort Dodge Messenger, 1991.) It also contains an Iowa State Bystander article which Burleson wrote about the history of African Americans in Fort Dodge, and a program and other material from a 1997 celebratory event on the subject.

The Fort Dodge City Council material (1983-1997 and undated) consists of Burleson's certificates of election, speeches Burleson gave as a city council member, and campaign materials.

The Photographs (1931-1997 and undated) feature Burleson with Iowa Senator Tom Harkin and with the Reverend Jesse Jackson, among others, and a photograph of workers at the Fort Dodge Hormel Plant.