A Tribute to Fritz Dolak, Copyright Librarian of Ball State University

Abstract

The community of copyright professionals lost a champion recently, with the passing of Frank J. (“Fritz”) Dolak on July 14, 2021. Fritz was the copyright librarian at Ball State University, and he was known nationally for the series of annual copyright conferences he organized and led in Indiana, and for his leadership in addressing the use of copyrighted works for the enhancement of distance education. He came to copyright after years of music, military service, and more. A hallmark of his life was bringing clarity and humor to serious challenges, starting with his family name. He had a simple family name that was routinely mispronounced. As Fritz would tell anyone who would listen, “The name is ‘Doo-Lok,’ as in ‘Do Lock the Door.’” Fritz was a professional colleague to many editors and contributors to JCEL. Three of his copyright colleagues—Dwayne K. Buttler, Kenneth D. Crews, and Donna L. Ferullo—worked with him for many years, and they share memories of Dr. Fritz Dolak and his influence and leadership. The story of Fritz Dolak is a story of kindness, generosity, and inspiration.