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  • Decade = 1970-1979
  • Series = Paul and Alice Dunbar
This letter discusses the complexities of copyright and permissions in the context of historical research papers. It highlights the need for researchers to secure literary permissions and potentially pay royalties when publishing books based on such materials. The author critiques overly complicated legal contracts and emphasizes the importance of courtesy and deference in historical societies.
The sender, Jacob C. Kellem, disagrees with the opinion expressed and provides reasoning based on Condition 2 of the loan agreement between the Ohio Historical Society and Ms. Pauline A. Young. Condition 2 stipulates that Ms. Young retains all literary rights to the papers. The letter asserts that the society failed in its duty to prevent the public, including those ordering single copies, from violating these rights. Jacob C. Kellem seeks prompt advice on compensation and prevention of future violations. The letter also mentions the potential modification of the existing agreement and Ms. Young's intent to stand firm on her rights while considering a reasonable compromise. The sender requests clarity on whether further legal action will be necessary to uphold Ms. Young's rights.
The letter responds to Mr. Porter's letter from November 14, 1973, regarding a disagreement over the interpretation of Paragraph 4 of a signed Agreement. It disputes the availability of single copy reproductions, emphasizing that they should only be accessible to those studying the collection. The letter also raises concerns about the publication of a microfilm edition and the use of proceeds from its sale, asserting Ms. Young's right to a fair share. Jacob C. Kellem conveys a willingness to escalate the matter if the issue is not resolved satisfactorily.
The letter, dated October 23, 1973, addresses Ms. Andrea D. Lentz regarding the Paul Laurence Dunbar and Alice Dunbar Nelson papers. It highlights that the agreement signed by Miss Young was modified from a gift to a loan, allowing single-copy reproductions but not the sale of entire microfilm sets. Miss Young believes she is entitled to half the earnings from the microfilm sales, and the matter is recommended to be submitted to the Society's Director for consideration.
On December 24, 1973, the Ohio Historical Society informed Jacob C. Kellem that their Board of Trustees had reviewed Pauline A. Young's request regarding the Paul L. Dunbar and Alice Dunbar Nelson papers. The Board decided to refer the matter to legal counsel and the Director for further action. Enclosed was the legal counsel's opinion, which led to the Society's inability to fulfill Ms. Young's request.
The letter to Ms. Young, dated March 27, 1974, reports that the Ohio Historical Society continues to deny her rights regarding the Paul L. Dunbar and Alice Dunbar Nelson papers. The author suggests seeking assistance from organizations like the NAACP and informs her of the inability to file a lawsuit in Delaware Courts. They inquire about Ms. Young's preference for retrieving her papers and enclose a debit note for services rendered.
The Wilmington Public Library pays tribute to the enduring story of Paul and Alice Dunbar, prominent black poets and civic leaders, through a collection of pictures, letters, and poetry. Their story is one of love, devotion, and partnership, as well as frustration, disagreement, and estrangement. Despite their separation and Paul Laurence Dunbar's passing in 1906, Alice Dunbar-Nelson continued to be associated with her poet husband. On April 2, the library dedicates National Book Week to their memory, with a talk by Pauline A. Young, Alice Dunbar-Nelson's niece, and a reception in her honor.
Laurence T. Young expressed amazement to Pauline Young in this letter, at the extensive correspondence dating from 1973 to 1976, highlighting Pauline's remarkable dedication to a seemingly futile matter. The letter questioned the specifics of an agreement regarding the "Dunbar letters" and whether Pauline was the sole possessor. It suggested that without clear details on handling, distribution, publication, or compensation, there was no apparent legal basis for action. The letter discouraged legal involvement due to limited profitability and potential debt. It mentioned the return of papers and inquired about a "JANE ADDAMS" letter. The author planned to meet Pauline in Wilmington after the New York Convention and mentioned sending a check to support a Links convention in Seattle. The letter ended with well wishes.
A log of sales of institutions bought microfilm of the Dunbar materials, from 1972-1973.
Pauline A. Young Papers