Since the late 1970s, events in Central America have brought increased scholarly interest in the six isthmus nations--Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. Conceived in response to that scholarly interest, this volume provides a guide to collections of archival and manuscript materials in this country. Although most research in this country has focused on the sources available at the United States National Archives, there is a vast amount of underutilized research materials in smaller collections throughout this country. This work provides access to these lesser known collections as well as to the larger collections holding vast quantities of material. The book will be a valuable tool to researchers seeking primary material on Central America.

In addition to historical documents regarding politics, society, economics, and foreign affairs, this volume also surveys materials regarding ecology and indigenous people. Although Catholicism remains the religion of the region, the guide also includes protestant and other missionary work. Map collections, oral histories, photographs, and other visual materials are also covered. The book is arranged alphabetically by state, with the repositories appearing under each state heading. Each entry includes a brief description of the collection's holdings.