The series comprises a variety of literature published by the Union, including the Student handbook, which has been published continuously since the 1930s, originally with separate editions for the Men's and Women's Unions. The Handbook comprises basic information about the University of Manchester and the services offered by the Union, and is issued to students in their first term at the University. The series also contains more specialised publications like the Alternative Prospectus, published since the mid-1970s which gives a candid student view on the academic courses and services provided by the University, as well as the welfare, housing, women's and student society handbooks.
Dating for some items is only an approximation, as the items do not indicate a publication date.