The Robert Francis Papers at the University of Massachusetts are a rich source of information about the life and philosophy of Robert Francis and the development of his poetry. They were given to Special Collections and University Archives by Robert Francis beginning in November 1975, along with a collection of his printed works which are now housed in the Rare Books collection of the Special Collections and University Archives department. There were additions to the papers from Francis Quinn, Mr. Francis' literary executor; from the University of Massachusetts Press; and from the Tunnel Press in 1977.

The papers occupy approximately 8.25 linear feet and are divided into seven series, including Bio-bibliographical, Correspondence, Poetry, Non-fiction, Fiction, Photographs, and Recordings.

The correspondence, poetry, and non-fiction series are especially strong and provide a detailed account of Mr. Francis' long literary career.

This collection is organized into seven series:

• Series 1. Bio-bibliographical
• Series 2. Correspondence
• Series 3. Poetry
• Series 4. Non-fiction
• Series 5. Fiction
• Series 6. Photographs
• Series 7. Recordings