Archive Research: Advice

 

• Scoping the Archives: Determine which ones to look at (first pass)

• Select a series of themes, keywords, and names that summarize your research (These keywords will eventually help you narrow down particular collections, but they also help you identify which archives will likely contain documents of relevance to you).

• A research project on the MOI, for instance, will likely begin with secondary research. A simple trip to the library will provide the names of important politicians, social activists, government programs, and legislative acts related to the topic.

• Some archives are not indexed so careful notes required to identify the document(s).

• Some archives can be searched online (National Archives at Kew for example).

• Some archives are online (e.g. some of the Newspaper library), but most are paper based (again most of the Newspaper Library).

• Some archives have good study aids for an area of research (eg BFI Library).

• Record where/when accessed. More information is better than less!

• When possible, save digital copies/photos. Could use new folder for each new archive.

• Arrange your records according to a theme (e.g.: MOI/cabinet office communications).

• If archive is a distance away, organise your time there very carefully.

• Be realistic, as some archives only contain fragments.

• Work with the Archivist (they are there to help): Have a succinct overview of the research project with clearly stated objectives for that archives

• Be prepared for lost/destroyed or restricted material.

• Expect the un-expected!

• Always review which archive to access every now and then.

• Lastly, organise your notes!