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Archiver > ROOTS > 2004-12 > 1102560401


From: Carol Botteron <>
Subject: [ROOTS-L] Family Book Arrangement Help?
Date: Wed, 8 Dec 2004 21:46:41 -0500


Has anyone written a family history for an organization,
especially about a family that you have already researched
extensively? I'd appreciate suggestions about the
arrangements, financial and otherwise.

I have done considerable research on this family, and
corresponded with a distant cousin in another branch.
For a reunion next year, this cousin has asked me to
prepare a book about the family, especially his branch.
This will involve more research as well as writing.

Our intent is that I will be the author of this book, and
will retain rights so that I can later publish articles
and a larger book about the family. In other words, this
is not a work for hire.

Neither of us has made an arrangement like this before,
so we wonder how I should be paid. The simplest way might
be an hourly rate. Of course we have no idea how long it
might take. Also, would an hourly rate look like a work
for hire (i.e. endanger my rights)?

If a flat rate would be better, what is the usual range?
Would it depend on the size of the book (not known yet)?

Also, who would normally arrange for printing and binding?
Can someone suggest printers and binders who are familiar
with the preparation of small quantities of a smallish
probably-hardbound book?

I'd appreciate suggestions (general or specific) and
pointers to books, articles, web sites, mailing lists, etc.
Thank you!

Carol Botteron <>
Maintainer, Civil War Units File

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