I have received three additional messages on the subject of "Private Sale of Public Records."  These messages contain responses to earlier postings, and I will be posting them because I think they bring closure to the issue.  Personal experiences, opinions, and positions have been strongly and effectively stated by both collectors and custodians of materials documenting New York state history.

Two list members have privately questioned whether these postings are appropriate for a list dealing with New York State history.  Since its inception in 1995, NYHIST-L has had occasional postings regarding the accessibility and preservation of documentary sources relating to New York history.  Several of those postings have included comments on the policies and practices of libraries and archives in regard to preservation and duplication of documentary materials.  I think that libraries and archives in New York deserve and need public scrutiny by historically-aware citizens.  Therefore, I will continue to post messages concerning the administration of source materials relating to New York history. However, list members should refrain from personal exchanges, and should keep their focus on New York-related questions, topics, and issues.

Thank you!

Jim Folts
Moderator, NYHIST-L