This two-session workshop provides an introduction to advanced archival research. In part one, you will learn strategies for finding and evaluating relevant archival collections and steps you’ll need to consider before you go to an archive. In part two, you will “enter the archive,” completing the registration process and handling and examining different archival materials and formats. This workshop is designed to introduce those who have not previously done archival research to the world of archives and special collections, and also as a refresher and skill-building opportunity for those planning to visit archives again in the post-COVID environment.

Participants will learn:

• How to find relevant archival sources in databases and on the web;
• How to prepare for a research trip;
• The standard procedures and techniques that archivists and special collections curators expect researchers to be familiar with and practice;
• What sorts of materials you might encounter in an archive or special collections and ways to approach them;
• Planning for post-trip work and further research (building relationships with archivists and special collections curators).

There are no prerequisites, but participants are strongly encouraged to bring their own laptop to the session.

Note: Students may attend either or both sessions.