Studio shots by Steve Johnson (7 5x7 prints), 1997

The papers of literary journalist Charles Bowden document his prolific career covering topics including the Arizona desert and environmental protection, corruption in politics, and drugs and violence along the U.S.­–Mexico border, especially in Juárez. The collection measures 50 linear feet, and is arranged into the following sixteen series: 1) Education, 2) Writing-Newspapers, 3) Writing-Magazine & Freelance, 4) Writing-Monographs, 5) Writing-Unpublished and posthumously published, 6) Writing-Published Essays, 7) Speaking Engagements, 8) Correspondence, 9) Proposals, 10) Research, 11) Photographs, 12) Computer Media, 13) Financial Materials, 14) Other Writers, 15) Audiocassettes and LPs, and 16) Artifacts.

Subject matter and topics often appear in multiple series. Researchers are encouraged to consult all publications materials, as well as the Correspondence, Research, and Photographs series. Materials such as correspondence, research (including audio and video materials), and photographs are placed with the publication they relate to, unless it is unclear or they relate to multiple publications.

Materials in the collection include early educational works through 2007. Materials related to later publications can be found in the Charles Bowden Additions.