The primary documents in this collection are Dora's diaries. Yearly books were used, with only a brief space to record daily activities. Often the information was routine and redundant, such as weather, trips, ...

Tucked in the back pocket of many of the diaries were ephemera items, such as receipts, lists, membership cards, clippings or other notes. These items have been removed and foldered, with documentation of the year where found.

Some letters were occasionally found in the pockets, but most of the letters included in this collection were received from the donor in their original envelopes, in addition to the diaries. The letters have been mostly transcribed by volunteer processor Bobbie Schirado.

The 1928 diary, begun by Dora Spring during the year of her death, was continued by her daughter from February 20 through August 31, 1928. From 1867 through 1883, Dora lists those in her family who are born, die and are married, first in Benton Center and then in Michigan. Most diaries have an account of money she received and a list of what she purchased.