This sub-series contains the unbound literary works of Robert L. Forward, which primarily consist of draft versions of Forward's science-fiction and non-fiction writings. While it is often difficult to distinguish a so-called "science fact" article from a piece of technical writing, the title page format used by Dr. Forward often helps to identify a work as one or the other. Non-fiction, science fact articles typically refer to Forward's literary representation on the title page, though this is not universal. Conversely, his technical writings cite his work affiliation with Hughes Research Laboratories or Forward Unlimited.

Many of the manuscripts, though left unbound, were arranged by Dr. Forward shortly before his death. Notes identifying a selection of papers are frequently inserted, and occasionally provide contextual or other background information about a work. As with the bound manuscripts, select items also contain inscriptions of a similar type. For those resources containing such annotations, pertinent information is transcribed in a supplementary note. Select papers that were originally intended for binding are also identified as such in a supplementary note.

The bulk of the manuscripts are heavily copyedited by Dr. Forward and/or publishing staff. Many manuscripts are also autographed by Robert L. Forward and, occasionally, co-authors. All copyedits and autographs were made by Dr. Forward unless otherwise noted. Bylines are provided exclusively for co-authored works, works by other authors, and works citing more than one creative role.