The papers of H. Robert Otness span the years 1916 to 1995, with the bulk of the material covering the years 1950 to 1985.

The papers include 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. Other material consists of newspaper and journal articles of professional interest. There is also a large collection of various educational tests, and finally there are tape recording of speeches and radio programs. Material relating to his wife, Lillian, is also included as is correspondence and other material concerning his non-academic life.