While working on a WWII related reference question, I came across a document that might make a good conversation piece at your depository:

Lewis, George G., and John Mewha. 1955. History of prisoner of war utilization by the United States Army, 1776-1945. Washington: Dept. of the Army. (D 114.19/3:P 93, item 0344-G)

This document was originally produced in 1955. According to the forward:

"This study is primarily a treatment of the use of prisoner of war labor by the United States Army. It also provides a comprehensive treatment of the employment of prisoners of war by private employers in the United States. The primary objective of this monograph is to provide in one volume a comprehensive record of the use of prisoner of war labor for the guidance of General Staff officers and students in the Army school system. It is hoped that this study will assist the industrial and military mobilization planners of the future to provide for the use of prisoner of war labor. The material will also aid those interested in military affairs to understand some of the basic problems connected with the employment of prisoners of war."

Did you know that we've used enemy prisoners as labor? I didn't. Maybe your patrons didn't know either. Look it over, put it out and see if it draws attention.

Does anyone out there know if there have been similar studies for later conflicts? If so, please comment.