Biography as a literary form

Kathrine Beck, a novelist who writes under the name K. K. Beck, researched and wrote a biography of Opal Whiteley titled, Opal: A Life of Enchantment, Mystery, and Madness (2003). The collection (1911-2002) contains research files, correspondence, manuscripts, and interviews gathered or produced during the writing of the Opal Whiteley biography.

Earl Conrad (1912–1986) was an author who specialized in biographies and books about the African American experience and race relations, among other non-fiction books and criticisms. The collection contains manuscript material and published works, professional and personal correspondence, research materials, underground newspapers, teaching materials, reviews, publicity, and news clippings.