Correspondence sub-series reflect original order and research value, and are usually arranged in descending order of significance.
Correspondence may also be found mixed with writings, production files, financial records, scrapbooks, and other materials. Such correspondence (e.g. a letter accompanying an original draft of a manuscript, or a run of correspondence with a specific focus) can usually be left with materials in other series.
Common correspondence series and sub-series:
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Correspondence
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General Correspondence: Use for a main body of correspondence files when other correspondence series or sub-series are present.
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Family Correspondence
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Personal Correspondence
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Professional Correspondence
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Fan Mail
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Third Party Correspondence
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Incoming Correspondence
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Outgoing Correspondence
Some files may contain material relating to more than one series or subseries. When determining where to place a file of mixed nature, use the following general rules of thumb:
If the correspondence is principally of one type, the predominant type should determine how it is classified.
If the correspondence is equally weighed toward more than one type, the ultimate nature of the material should take precedence. (For example, a professional exchange may evolve into a closer personal friendship, in which case, the correspondence would be treated as personal).
For prominent correspondents, use cross-references to direct researchers to the multiple locations in which correspondence is filed.