Planned Parenthood Federation of America Records, 1928-2009 (PPFA II) : Collection Overview

Abstract:

The records of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America provide substantial information about the history of the birth control and family planning movement nationally and internationally. They are a significant source of information on all aspects of the history of birth control and family planning, including women's health issues; sex education; women in poverty; international population planning and policy; and the legal, political and social aspects of contraception and abortion. Types of material include correspondence; memoranda; minutes; reports; financial records; legal records; publicity; publications; photographs; audio tapes; video tapes; and posters. The PPFA Records are divided into two portions, PPFA I and PPFA II, this being section II. The earlier records in PPFA I are completely organized and open to research. PPFA II consists of records received since 1988, dating from the 1920s to the present, so there is some overlap in dates. This portion is unprocessed, and some parts are restricted (see Terms of Access and Use below).

Terms of Access and Use:

Restrictions on access:

PPFA has closed records created January 1, 1985 or later, with the exception of many published materials which are open to research. All records having to do with clinic defense and security are closed. PPFA has closed a small section of files in box 206 for fifty years. Researchers may request access to restricted materials from PPFA.Portions of the collection are stored offsite; researchers must give 48 hours advance notice. Access to audiovisual materials may first require production of research copies. This collection has not been fully processed and therefore may be difficult to use.

Restrictions on use:

PPFA has retained copyright ownership of their records, although the Sophia Smith Collection has been authorized to grant permission to researchers to publish from any of the PPFA Records. Permission must be obtained to publish reproductions or quotations beyond "fair use."