{"value"=>"<p>The Public Education Department was formed for the 1940 season by combining the departments of Science and Education and Children and Youth Services. Director Rudolph Kagey, along with an active advisory committee, concentrated the new department's energies on soliciting educational and community institutions to endorse the Fair as an educational laboratory. The department furnished slides and films to institutions nationwide, publicized the Fair's educational merits in the press, and offered discount rates to school and student groups. In addition, the department developed educational exhibits and operated the Little Theatre, which maintained a program of daily documentary films and special events. The records include the correspondence of Gerald Wendt (former Science and Education director), Rudolph Kagey and staff with public schools, universities, and other institutions. The Departmental Organization and Development file includes Wendt's detailed analysis of the 1939 program. Attendance Appeals provides examples of mailings targeted to special interest groups ranging from churches to agricultural associations. Exhibit summaries provide descriptions of many of the 1940 season's exhibits, amusements and services.</p>"}