Materials in this collection fall into three broad categories: records documenting the internal organization and operations of the committee, those relating to its promotional efforts, and subject files.
Records relating to internal organization include general correspondence, the file of a paid secretary, proceedings of organizational meetings and subsequent annual meetings as well as the handwritten minutes of executive committee meetings. Annual financial reports and income tax records which include annual tax reports and materials relating to the committee's tax-free status document the organization's fiscal activities. Membership application of individual and organizational members and the biographical sketches of the officers complete the organizational records.
Promotional records are of several types and are arranged by format. Mailing lists, circular letters, pamphlets and news releases, and a speakers bureau were direct forms of promotion. Newspaper clippings and the endorsements and publications of other organizations constitute a second group of records describing promotional activities.
Finally, there are subject files relating to specific activities. These include files on legislation in Wisconsin; the Magnussen Bill; papers concerning the license of Channel 3, Madison; and papers concerning Channel 9, Wausau. Pamphlets on educational television in general produced by other organizations are included in the last subject folder.
This collection documents three principal subjects: the proposed state educational television network; the channel 9 license dispute; and the promotion of educational television generally. They are principally the product of Elizabeth Risser's activities as secretary during the entire existence of the WCCETV. Risser and Swanton appear to be the producers of most of the reports and promotional literature and the recipients of the correspondence found in this collection.
