How do you do an archive research?
The basic steps in the archival research process are the following:
- Develop your research question.
- Define your research needs.
- Conduct background research.
- Think about the kinds of sources you hope to find.
- Search for and identify collections and repositories.
- Read archival finding aids and collection guides.
How are archives important for research?
Why Are Archives Important? Archives are important because they provide evidence of activities and tell us more about individuals and institutions. They tell stories. Records weren’t usually created for the purpose of historical research so they often provide a less biased account of events than secondary sources.
Where can I find archival research?
Online Research Tools and Aids
- National Archives Catalog. Our National Archives Catalog is the online portal to our records and information about our records.
- History Hub.
- Microfilm Catalog.
- Access to Archival Databases (AAD)
- Archives Library Information Center (ALIC)
- Guide to Federal Records.
- Finding Aids.
- Search by Topic.
How do you access historical materials and research at an archive?
Visit the website of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) at http://www.archives.gov/. NARA oversees the preservation of United States federal government materials.
How do you present an archive?
On the File menu, click Archive. Select the Archive this folder and all subfolders option, and then specify a date under Archive items older than. Under Archive file, click Browse to specify a new file or location if you do not want to use the default file or location.
What records are available at the National archives?
There are approximately 13.28 billion pages of textual records; 10 million maps, charts, and architectural and engineering drawings; 44.4 million still photographs, digital images, filmstrips, and graphics; 40 million aerial photographs; 563,000 reels of motion picture film; 992,000 video and sound recordings; and …
What type of research is archival research?
What is archival research? Archival research is research involving primary sources held in an archives, a Special Collections library, or other repository. Archival sources can be manuscripts, documents, records (including electronic records), objects, sound and audiovisual materials, or other materials.
Is there a guide to the National Archives?
This web version of the Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States is based on a paper version with the same title compiled by Robert B. Matchette et al in 1995.
What can you do with a research guide?
Our research guides can help you uncover the history of a place, a person or explore a particular historical subject. Each guide tells you where you can find, access and understand the relevant records. How to look for records of… What can I use Discovery for?
Is the National Archives in Washington DC open?
Research visits are by appointment only and require a virtual consultation prior to the onsite visit. Please see this press release for further information, and check the specific facility page for updates. The Rotunda of the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, and most Presidential Library museums are open with limited capacity.