Series consists of chronological files created by Johannes Linn while serving in the Urban and Regional Economics Division of the Economics Department (ECDRB) and its successor the Development Economics Department (DEDRB) of the Development Policy Vice Presidency (DPS). Correspondence and memoranda contained in the chronological files generally relate to his work on urban development policy. Chronological files include those labeled "Chronological File - Official Correspondence" and labeled "Chronological File".

The "Official Correspondence" folders date from 1973 to 1981 and exclusively contain correspondence between Linn and individuals external to the World Bank. Most of the correspondence deals with the sharing of information (i.e. papers and reports), conference participation, and speech requests and logistical planning for conferences. A small number of papers and reports are included as attachments to correspondence. Correspondence is between Linn and academics, journalists, government officials, multilateral institutions, and other institutions and associations.

Other chronological files in this series primarily contain correspondence and memoranda between Linn and World Bank staff. Correspondence between Linn and external, non-Bank staff is more personal and substantive in nature than that found in the Official Correspondence files. Topics in these records include: project proposals; seminar and conference participation; research projects; work programs; economic analysis of Bank projects; and country and city studies.