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In 1990-1991, the Bentley Library accessioned a second subseries of Topical Files containing records from 1963 to 1988 (boxes 59-65). The bulk of this material dates from James Brinkerhoff's tenure as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (1977-1987). This topical file is arranged alphabetically and includes correspondence, memoranda, and reports. These records reflect some of the financial concerns of the university during that time period and highlight major fiscal decisions made by the university.

Perhaps the most significant fiscal project faced by the University of Michigan in the early 1980s was the construction of a replacement university hospital. Many of the financial planning records for the new hospital are included in the topical file under "Hospitals - Replacement University Hospital". Financial negotiations with the architects, Albert Kahn Associates, may also be found in this group of folders. (Researchers may also consult the University Hospitals record group for further information.)

While not officially part of his office's responsibilities, Brinkerhoff participated in several important nationwide university consortiums. The records of his involvement in those organizations are also included in the topical files. As one of the original members of the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. (AURA), the University of Michigan maintained a continued interest in this significant but expensive research venture. The records of Brinkerhoff's service on several financial committees for this consortium from 1979 to 1985 may be found under AURA. Also, researchers interested in the early financial difficulties and eventual solvency of the Research Libraries Group, Inc. (RLG) should consult Brinkerhoff's records as treasurer of this consortium. (For additional materials on AURA the researcher should consult the organization's records and for additional information on RLG the researcher should consult the records of the University of Michigan Library; both record groups are available at the Bentley Historical Library.)

Several other folders include material of potential research interest. "Ford Presidential Library" includes correspondence, memoranda, and meeting minutes pertaining to the efforts of university officials to locate this library in Ann Arbor. "Health Maintenance Organizations" includes correspondence and reports, beginning in 1968, regarding the feasibility of an HMO at the University of Michigan. "Public Interest Research Group in Michigan" includes information regarding the debate over check-off donations for that group as a part of student registration. Finally, those interested in the demise of the student bookstore should see "University Cellar."