A primary source is an original source of information, written or created during the time period under study. Primary sources may include:
Contrast these with secondary sources, which interpret and analyze primary sources. Secondary sources are generally written after the fact.
Finding primary sources can be tricky. Here are some ways to search for them:
1. Search a primary source database.
2. Use library catalogs to find primary sources published in books.
3. Use the bibliographies of secondary sources.
4. Search for manuscript and archival materials.
5. Search an index (not full-text, but sometimes the best for the topic).
Digital Libraries:
Digital Libraries:
Digital Libraries:
Use these search terms- in addition to your keywords- in order to identify published primary sources at the library:
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