This is an exploration of the richness inherent in genre and ethnic collections. The contributors were asked to provide an overview of their topic, its relevance to library collections and suggestions about how collections might proceed. In addition, attention was paid to the needs of individual collectors, many of whose collections have also enriched libraries. The editors hope that this volume will contribute to a greater understanding of why it is important to collect and preserve special kinds of writing. The studies of the various genres in this book show that each has a specific contribution to make to the understanding of our social development and many can enlighten dark passages in the past.