Archives for Historical Research

General archive preparation applies for archives and libraries outside the US, UK, and Europe as well. After you have determined that you want to visit a specific institution and you have an idea of what you want to look at from exploring their finding aids, the most important thing to do before your visit is to contact the library. Check their websites, see if there are e-mails or phone numbers to contact and go from there. It is helpful for them to know you're coming. From there, you should think about and be ready for the following things:

Paperwork documenting who you are and what you are researching can ease access to collections. Think about obtaining paperwork from the following:

• Department, Advisor
• University
• Government, embassies
• Passport

Every reading room experience will be different

• some won't allow photography, at others you may need to negotiate prices to take photographs
• Private collections in particular may have more rules than public ones
• Smaller collections can also be atypical in terms of hours and access
• Always respect the librarians, archivists, and administrators at these institutions. They work hard and they are making these materials accessible to you, the researcher
  • Keep in mind where you are, cultural expectations, acceptable decorum, and respect for others