Here is a general approach for finding and using the various materials available in Special Collections.
- Pick a topic -- Identify the people, historical topics, and institutions that you will be researching and the type of material you hope to consult.
- Search for resources -- Utilize OneSearch, topic guides, and finding aids to identify which collections will be most suitable for your research purposes.
- Refine your research -- Begin to narrow your research by refining the materials you will need to access based on what will be the most useful with the time you have available.
- Request materials -- Decide on manuscript boxes and folders, books, theses and dissertations, maps, or other items you would like to request, keeping the policies and procedures of the Special Collections Reading Room.
- Obtain research copies -- Either photograph in person or request duplication of materials as needed, including copies and scans of maps and photographs.
- Cite your work -- Keep track of the manuscripts, images, ephemera, and published works you spend time with. Creating citation lists as you go along, either with software like Zotero or the hard way--writing them yourself--will help you organize your thoughts and save you time and frustration later.