Each volume contains biographies of notable Americans who died in the specified five-year period.

This work records the accomplishments of the leaders of library science with 51 thoroughly researched biographies of individuals whose contributions have profoundly influenced the profession's history. The biographical sketches, ranging in length from 1,400 to 4,000 words, were researched, written, and reviewed by noted authorities in the library and information science community.

Part of an integrated online collection of primary documents, secondary reference sources, and journal articles covering all areas of U.S. history from pre-colonial times to the present day. The DAB records the lives of prominent Americans who died by Dec. 31, 1980.