JUN-23-97 MON 12:47


U KY AGRICULTURE LIBRARY FAX NO. 6063234719


P. 02


 USAIN
 United States Agricultural Information Network

 June 23, 1997




 George Farr, Director
 Division of Preservation and Access
 National Endowment for the Humanities
 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
 Washington, DC 20506

 Dear Dr. Farr:

 SThis is a letter to express the support of the U.S. Agricultural Information Network
 (USAIN) for phase 2 of Preserving the History of U.S. Agricultural Life: State and Local
 Literature, 1820-1945. Work on phase one is progressing very well and with the funding of
 phase 2, 30% of the 50 states will be able involved in this important project.

 The preservation of state and local agricultural literature has been a priority for USAIN
 for a number of years. Network members clearly indicated that preservation was an important
 aspect of the flow of agricultural information and'in 1993 approved the National Preservation
 Program for Agricultural Literature. Since that plan was adopted USAIN has been modestly
 supporting the program but cannot do it alone. 'By collaborating with Comell University; we
 have the expertise required to oversee a quality preservation program.

 The preservation of the state and local agricultural literature is essential. Much of this
 literature is deteriorating and will be lost forever. It is a historical record that reflects the rural to
 urban migration of the U.S. population. In addition, this project will improve access to the
 materials for our historical research population.

 The USAIN membership fully stipports this project and we urge NEH to respond
 positively to the continuation of this project. The continuation of the project will ensure that this
 important literature is available for future generations of scholars, researchers and the public at
Large.

 Sincerely yours,


 Antoinette Paris Powell
 USAIN President