The IAWA Small Collections was compiled from a variety of sources by Special Collections staff for use in reference and research. The collection consists primarily of biographical materials for women architects, architectural historians, and designers including curriculum vitas, firm brochures, exhibit notices, photographs, and publications. Drawings, sketches, course notes, correspondence, and other materials pertaining to architectural collections are also present.

This collection contains a mix of biographical information, project records, and architectural drawings. Records include drawings for 112 architectural projects from the architect Joan Wood and her Boston-based firm, Joan Wood Architects, along with some notes, correspondence, and project photographs. The later addition contains paper records, photographic materials, and design records for 73 named clients in the Boston area.

This collection contains personal papers and biographical materials, professional papers, office records, and project records. Personal papers include student work and thesis work. Professional papers include slides of Wood's exhibits and lectures for the AIA. Office records include color slides and portfolio sheets for Joan Wood Associates. Project records include project notes, photographic materials, paper records, and drawings organized by client name.

The Joan Wood Project Record Series consists of six boxes and six oversized folders. Boxes 18-21 contain primarily paper records; boxes 22-23 contain photographic materials and portfolio sheets; and the oversized folders contain architectural and design drawings for clients and school work.