Ralph Keyes Papers

Access and use

Location of collection:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Special Collections, University Libraries (0434)
560 Drillfield Dr.
Newman Library, Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA 26041-9001
Contact for questions and access:
Phone: (540) 231-6308
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research.

Terms of access:

The copyright status of this collection is unknown. Copyright restrictions may apply. Contact Special Collections and University Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for personal or research use can be requested using our reproduction/digitization form: http://bit.ly/scuareproduction.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for publication or exhibit use can be requested using our publication/exhibition form: http://bit.ly/scuapublication. Please contact Special Collections and University Archives (specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.

Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Ralph Keyes Papers, Ms2021-044, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Summary

Extent:
6.1 Cubic Feet 5 boxes
Creator:
Keyes, Ralph
Abstract:
This collection contains 5 boxes of research files, subject files, and papers relating to food, appliances (especially toasters), household, and food culture. The bulk of the materials are not clearly dated, but were likely collected between the 1980s and early 2000s.
Language:
The materials in the collection are in English.
Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Ralph Keyes Papers, Ms2021-044, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Background

Scope and content:

This collection contains 5 boxes of research files, subject files, and papers relating to food, appliances (especially toasters), household, and food culture. Keyes intended to author a book on toasters, and the collection also includes research, drafts, and manuscript book chapters of "The Tao of Toasters." The bulk of the materials are not clearly dated, but were likely collected between the 1980s and early 2000s.

Acquisition information:
The materials were donated to Special Collections in March 2018.
Processing information:

The processing, arrangement, and description of the Ralph Keyes Papers commenced in September 2021 and completed in October 2021. Some additional description was completed in February 2022.

Arrangement:

This collection is in its original order, as recived from the donor. The materials were refoldered, and in some cases split into multiple folders. Several publications were removed from the collection and cataloged for the Special Collections and University Archives' rare book collection.