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JHP 3151: Comparative Genocide in the Twentieth Century: Locating Primary Sources

Strategies for Locating a Primary Source

There are a few strategies you can use to locate primary source materials.

1. Search the library catalog

You can search the library catalog for your topic and include keywords such as diary, personal narrative, pamphlet, letters, maps, etc. that corresponds to the type of primary source material you think would be relevant.

2. Look through our primary source databases

We have specific databases that deal with primary source materials. You can browse our list of databases and read the descriptions to see if there are any relevant material.

3. You can check the references of secondary sources to see what primary sources they are citing.

Secondary sources often will cite primary sources to help build their argument. Take a look at what primary sources the author is using and search for the source in the library or contact a librarian if you need further help locating the source.

4. Check WorldCat

WorldCat allows you to search other libraries for primary sources. Using the Advanced Search, you can narrow your focus down to "Archival Material" under Format.

Librarian

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Breanne Crumpton
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