Historical Research in Archives: A Practical Guide [Paperback]

An aid to researchers working in 21st century archives in the United States, this pamphlet presents some contemporary approaches to archival research from tracking down possible archival sources to the nuts-and-bolts of recording information. It also offers tips for organizing archival material and \~utilizing new technologies in the archives.An aid to researchers working in 21st century archives in the United States, this pamphlet presents some contemporary approaches to archival research from tracking down possible archival sources to the nuts-and-bolts of recording information. It also offers tips for organizing archival material and \~utilizing new technologies in the archives.Working in the Archives in the 21st Century1. Introduction2. Scoping out the Archives3. General PreparationTechnology and the Twenty-First-Century ArchivesNew Technology and MethodsCamerasScannersLaptops and Tablets4. Setting Realistic Goals5. Building RelationshipsWorking with ArchivistsPractice Your Elevator TalkExplain in Basic Terms What You Are Hoping to FindLearn a Bit about Your ArchivistObserve the Golden Ruleand Professional BoundariesThe Unspoken Reality of Being NiceConservation of Archival Materials and How to Help Your ArchiveMeeting Other HistoriansGetting What You Came ForRestricted MaterialsLost or Missing MaterialsMaterials Being ProcessedThis Isn't What I ExpectedOrganizing Your NotesOrganizing Digital FilesOrganizing Physical FilesAcknowledgements6. Quick Tips7. Definitions of TermsSamuel Redman is assistant professor at the University of Massuchusetts Amherst specializing in 19th and 20th US history with a focus on culture and ideas.