History of Mountain Lakes

The Mountain Lakes Historic Preservation Committee is seeking proposals from local authors for the preparation of a book on the history of Mountain Lakes in celebration of Mountain Lakes 100th Anniversary in 2011. The book is envisioned to cover the earliest years to the present.  It will be a "coffee-table" book:

1. Between 200 and 250 pages,
2. Dimensions: 8½ x 11 inches,
3. Mixture of text and historic photos,
4. Between 50,000 and 60,000 words of text,
5. Grayscale photos,
6. Hard cover with a spine label but without graphics
7. Full-color dust jacket.

Mountain Lakes has a vast amount of historic material about the town's early years in its historical archives.  Nevertheless, it is expected that some original research will still have to be done, particularly about more recent history.  The job will be:

1. Work with the Mountain Lakes archivist to review the material available.
2. Choose and organize the material to be used and determine what additional material is needed.
3. Prepare a proposed outline for review by the HPC.
4. Work with the HPC to obtain all additional needed material.
5. If necessary, research ancillary subjects such as a) prehistory of the area, b) the Arts and Crafts movement, c) other related communities such as Shoreham LI, and communities in California.
6. Interview key old-timers who are still around.
7. Write the text using document-preparation software of your choice.
8. Prepare periodic progress reports and drafts for review by the HPC.
9. Work with the HPC to choose a publisher for the book.
10. Submit the final version to the publisher and resolve issues as they arise.

The HPC wishes the book to be available in a quantity of 1000 to 2000 copies by Nov 1, 2010.  The final version will have to be submitted to the publisher in time to meet this date, possibly as early as spring 2010.

Authors with a background of writing experience in major projects and an interest in local history are desired.  Proposals from authors with knowledge of Mountain Lakes and its history will be looked on especially favorably.

Proposals should include time and cost estimates, approach that would be used, writing background, background in local history, and examples of past work.  To be considered, proposals must be submitted by Dec 31, 2007.

Submit questions about this project and proposals to e-mail or call 973-335-4712.

---

Committee-Home | Background & Mission | Members | Meetings | Activities