The Papers of Nelson Poynter include items in
123 small document boxes (equivalent to approximately 62 regular document
boxes), and a variety of miscellaneous materias in secured storage cabinets.
Poynter (1903-1978) served as a longtime editor and publisher of the St.
Petersburg Times. He passed away on 15 June 1978, shortly after
attending the groundbreaking ceremonies for the old campus library structure
(currently Bayboro Hall). This building was named in his honor. David
Shedden, currently director of the library at the Poynter
Institute, performed original physical processing and arrangement of
the collection, which was originally donated by the Times in 1978.
Many of the additional materials require further preservation, processing,
cataloguing, and storage modification.
Restrictions/Preservation Note
The acidic paper used for newspapers, memoranda,
clippings, and other items has promoted the rapid physical deterioration
found in some titles of this collection. To prevent further damage
to materials in the Papers of Nelson Poynter, refrain from placing any
additional stress on the paper fibers by folding or creasing documents,
or by exposing them to light for an extended period of time. Please
report any tears or other damage so library staff may take appropriate
preservation or conservation measures. While no restrictions limit
access to this collection, library staff will evaluate photocopying requests
on an individual basis to ensure the long-term preservation of this unique
collection.
Scope and Contents
This collection, occupying 58 linear feet of
cabinets and drawers in the Special Collections reading room, contains
personal and professional correspondence, publications, editorials, memorabilia,
and pictures. These items document both Poynter's activities as editor
and owner of the St. Petersburg Times and his role in community
affairs and in the growth and development of St. Petersburg and Florida. |
