Memorandum

To: From: Date: Alfred Smith, Rare Books and Manuscript Librarian Florence M. Paisey, Librarian March 20, 2013

Subject: Acquisitions: The Lois Lenski Collection As affirmed in a recent memorandum, The Lois Lenski Collection in special collections at Florida State University is an in-depth collection of Lois Lenskis primary notes, manuscripts, communications with editors, sketches for illustrations and illustrations for many of her books. In addition, the print collection encompasses most of her books in each thematic series. The mission of Florida State Universitys special collections provides access to collections of manuscripts, rare books, and university archives. Researchers in childrens and young adult literature travel to FSU to research Lenskis materials and books. It would behoove special collections to build on existing strengths of the Lenski Collection, identifying manifest gaps and bridging them. Lenski was awarded the 1947 Newberry Medal for her young adult story, Strawberry Girl. Previous to winning the Newberry Medal, she had been recognized with two Newberry Honor Medals one in 1937 for Phebe Fairchild: Her Book and the other in 1942 for Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison. Each book has one first edition with the exception of the Newberry Medal winner, Strawberry Girl. The first edition is not on the shelf and, according to the online catalog, was a presentation copy, now lost. The primary papers that document Lenskis writing and illustrations for Strawberry Girl are intact. Such papers include authorial production notes as well as the typescript, sketches for illustrations and final illustrations. There are also two other copies of the book both reprints and derivative of the first edition, first issue. Primary editions along with the typescript are as close to final authorial intention as is possible for the modern book. They initiate the tangible publishing history. Studying the typescript alongside the primary edition is important in establishing the edition. Moreover, examining the typescript, the primary edition and comparing multiple copies within the edition can best establish the edition as a whole the order of printing and transmission. Therefore, I am proposing that special collections purchase a primary edition of Strawberry Girl. This important edition is available in very good condition through the ABAA at $395.00. Such a purchase will replace a lost book and bridge the gap now existing for the 1947 Newberry Medal winner, Strawberry Girl.