Since the beginning of this project, so many individuals have contributed to its completion that it is almost impossible to express the appreciation of the Association for the task well done. Nevertheless, there are certain individuals who should be singled out for a very special "Thank You."

Without the single-mindedness of Dr. Thomas Freeman, the original 859 page manuscript would never have materialized. The Association is forever indebted to Dr. Freeman for his tireless efforts to produce the much needed reference tool about contemporary Alabama authors. While Dr. Freeman was the driving force behind this project, others performed invaluable service. A special thanks goes to Robert Avant, Prudence White Bryant, Robert R. Burkhardt, Regina Cooper, Marguerite Lange, Patricia B. Malone, Barbara J. Moore, Julia Pfau, and Prahbha Sharma. Many thanks to each of you for your contributions to the project.

There were others who contributed to the final version of the original manuscript. Without the efforts of Marie Bingham, Kathryn Jones, Mary Ann Veenstra, Elizabeth Pollard, Dr. Paul Spence, Nancy Dupree, and Gene Geiger, no final version would have been completed. Many, many thanks for your time and efforts.

Two very special people deserve the highest praise. Dr. Sue Medina and Ms. Ellen Snipes of the Network of Alabama Academic Libraries, were indefatigable in their efforts to input the material into a computer for editing and rearranging material. They were constant in their work to correct all mistakes. Without their unselfishness, this final version would never have been completed. As usual, there is always a chance that someone who worked without complaint to finish this project failed to be recognized. Should that have happened, please accept a heartfelt thanks. Remember, you know you contributed to the final product.

Through the many, many years of work to complete this manuscript, a large number of individuals have contributed their time for its completion. During this past year, 1992, new names must be added to the list. It is with heart felt thanks and with deep appreciation that I acknowledge the contributions of Harmon Straiton, Lynn Williams, Marcia Boosinger, Tamera Lee, Fred Edmiston, Sherida Downer, Donna McCurley, Henry McCurley, Kathy Yarbrough, and Cecilia Schmitz for their assistance in the completion of this project. Without their help, the task would not have ended.