Jim Crank states that no hobby organisation lists suppliers.  Not
quite true!  The Player Piano Group publish a directory each year for
members, and this tries to include all current roll makers.  It takes
quite a bit of updating each year, especially to work out who is no
longer in business.  During my time as editor I have made sure to
incorporate every paper roll manufacturer that I hear of, although
I am sure that some escape me.

I have sent my latest list to Karl Ellison to incorporate into the list
he is preparing for the MMD, and hope that his research will allow an
even better PPG list this year.

I see absolutely no problem with societies listing businesses for free.
Having new rolls available is an important aspect of keeping the hobby
alive.  Surely a live hobby is every society's aim as well?   So,
listing businesses keeps the hobby alive.  No problem.  It's not like
anyone's getting rich out of selling rolls, after all!

I've always personally been far more interested in those who issue
their own rolls than shops or other retailers, although the focus of
some lists is the other way round.  I think it's important to record
roll producers and cutters while they are in business, if for no other
reason than to know what the rolls are when they turn up secondhand!

There is a real problem with limited issue and word-of-mouth series.
They tend to exclude newcomers and those not in a particular clique.
It's important to allow new enthusiasts to become involved, and
showing them what's available certainly helps.  I would encourage
anyone launching a project to make use of the Internet and its instant
global broadcast of information.  Local societies should pick up this
information and pass it on to their members -- that way everyone
benefits.

Julian Dyer