The Science for the People series (30 folders, .5 linear feet) contains records which document not only the activities of the Ann Arbor chapter, but also those of the regional and national levels of the organization. "Internal Discussion Bulletins," "National Conferences," and "National Newsletters," contain materials generated at the national level. They are valuable because they provide a context for the activities of the Ann Arbor chapter in relation to the Boston headquarters and the other chapters around the country. The "Internal Discussion Bulletins" are especially helpful in understanding the goals and activities of the organization at the national as well as local levels. They include chapter reports, discourse on problems of national and local organization, and discussion of issues which were of interest to Science for the People.
The correspondence and minutes of the "Midwest Editorial Collective" offer the most complete record of the Ann Arbor chapter's involvement in regional activities. Subjects covered include regional conferences and publication of special issues of the Science for the People magazine. Also valuable to a study of the group's regional activities is the "Midwest Coordinating Committee" file, which documents that committee's attempts to facilitate the formation and growth of other Midwest chapters, and to promote inter-chapter communication. The Midwest Region Newsletter includes coverage of regional conferences, regional chapter reports, and updates on special magazine issues being produced by the Midwest Editorial Collective.
The best introduction to the group's local activities can be found in the "History and Statement of Purpose" file. It contains a historical sketch, produced in 1977, and a statement of purpose, which briefly summarize chapter activities. The "Ann Arbor Chapter Minutes, Newsletter, and Chapter Reports" file documents the group's day-to-day activities and discussion. The different types of materials are combined because they are highly complementary. Even together, however, they provide far from comprehensive coverage. Development of articles and format for the magazine are the major topics covered in the "Correspondence" file.