The papers of H. Robert Otness span the years 1916 to 1995, with the bulk of the material covering the years 1930 to 1985.

This collection includes material relating to his teaching at the University of Idaho, his 1966 sabbatical, some items concerning his work with the U.S. Navy, Vineland (New Jersey) Training School and the Washington State School at Buckley (Rainier State School). Other material consists of newspaper and journal articles of professional interest. Included is a large collection of various educational tests, and tape recordings of speeches and radio programs. There are also personal photograph prints, negatives, and slides; personal audio recordings; and scrapbooks.