Representative Cole's papers, which pertain almost exclusively to his years in the U.S. House of Representatives, include correspondence, copies of proposed bills, and newspaper clippings concerning the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy, the Committee on Armed Services, and the Naval Affairs Committee; numerous letters from constituents expressing opinions on specific legislation, presidential appointments, foreign affairs, and other issues and letters concerning pensions, workmen's compensation and other claims, appointments to the U.S. Military, Naval, and Air Force Academies, and immigration cases. Also, correspondence with the Republican Party organization and individuals concerning Congressional district campaigns and elections; letters to and from constituents and local officails pertaining to federal reimbursements for damages suffered in the 1935 flood, and inquiries and criticisms regarding flood control proposals of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; pamphlets issued by special interest groups; mimeographed newsletters of local Republican groups, printed campaign materials, and voters' lists; and personal papers and farm accounts, Bath, Steuben County.

Also, 37 page transcript of oral history interview with W. Sterling Cole, conducted by Charles T. Morrissey, August 24, 1978.