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History Resources

Secondary Sources

Primary Sources

Tips for Finding Primary Sources

Use the following terms to help you find collections of primary sources in the library's catalog:

  • Source
  • Papers
  • Diary
  • Reader
  • Document
  • Autobiography
  • Chronicle

Use reference sources to find the names and titles of specific people, places, items, etc. Reference sources will help you establish a timeline and identify key figures, facts, and terms. They can also refer you to secondary and primary sources. Finally, refer to the bibliographies in your secondary sources to help you locate primary sources.

Magazines

Below are examples of magazines that you can use as primary sources. These, and many more, are available in print or microfilm on the second floor of the library. Search for these using the library's Full Text Finder:

  • The Ladies' Home Journal
  • Life
  • Mademoiselle
  • Newsweek
  • Time

Databases