The Institute for Retired Professionals (IRP) was founded in 1962 by a group of New York City schoolteachers who sought to continue their intellectual development after retirement. The creation of courses and their delivery is entirely member run and depends upon members' interests. New courses are offered each term. The collection consists mainly of printed matter, such as fliers, publications and course catalogs.

This collection consists of administrative records produced by Parsons School of Design administrative offices, including Admissions; the Board of Governors; Career Services; Human Resources; Student Services; and the Development Office, including Alumni Relations and External Partnerships. The contents primarily comprise printed promotional materials, directories and lists, with a small amount of photographs and email correspondence.