The International Working Group on Legume Viruses (IWGLV) was established on March 30, 1961. The group was created to advance the study and control of viruses which infect legume plants by improving international collaboration among active legume virologists. The study of legume plants is especially important since many are used for crops. Meetings were held about every three years, the first one on September 7, 1962. Papers and posters were presented and discussed. These meetings helped the exchange of information, helped legume virologists make personal contacts, and sometimes lead to collaborative projects. Newsletters and data sheets on group members were also distributed to members.

The IWGLV merged with the International Working Group on Vegetable Viruses to form the International Working Group on Legume and Vegetable Viruses (IWGLVV) in April 2005.

For additional information on the history of the IWGLV, see Research on Viruses of Legume Crops and the International Working Group on Legume Viruses: historical facts and personal reminiscences, by L. Bos (Aleppo, Syria: IWGLV, 1996), Special Collections call no. SB608 L4 B67x 1996 and Box 6, Folder 16.

The collection (1960-1999) contains correspondence, annual meeting information, committee reports, newsletters, questionnaires, membership information, and files on the history of the IWGLV and on legume viruses in general. The questionnaires usually contain background information on members and their research and publications, but can also include questions concerning information on legume viruses such as lists from members of known legume viruses in their area. The questionnaire files also frequently include correspondence related to the questionnaire in which members voice concerns and suggestions and expand on answers given in the questionnaire. The correspondence is usually from members to the executive secretary of the working group in which they typically discuss meetings, current and potential projects, concerns and suggestions. Meeting materials often include programs, agendas, correspondence, abstracts and minutes. Documentation of the early meetings is often limited since early in the group's history the meetings were very informal. The collection includes a folder containing materials from the initial organization of the working group.

For a related collection, please see the American Phytopathological Society Records (MS 175).

The collection is arranged chronologically.