The collection consists of KCUR radio broadcast on analog and digital tapes, dating from 1953 to 2005, as well as CD-Rs and digital files, dating from 2002 to 2017. The materials document the social, cultural, and political history of Kansas City and the Midwest, providing researchers with context and insights into midwesterners’ viewpoints on national issues. The broadcasts contain interviews, recorded events, and news coverage on issues of race, abortion, education standards, crime, transportation, desegregation, childcare, immigration, animal abuse, gun control, housing and urban development, gender and sexuality, pollution, and public transportation. In addition, the content will assist researchers looking for information on health related issues, including reports on childbirth, cognitive thinking, epilepsy, alcoholism, elderly care, hospital care, immunization, right to live or die, psychology, special needs, and sight impairment.

Recordings from 2004 to 2017 consists of the following news related programs: Central Standard, KC Currents, Under the Clock, Up to Date, and the The Walt Bodine Show, as well as, the music programs 12 O'clock Jump, Fish Fry, and Night Tides.