There are certain words that appear in the subject headings of items in the library catalog that indicate primary sources. The term used most frequently is sources, but there are others. To identify primary sources in the library catalog, follow these steps:
1. Go to Advanced Search
2. Enter your keyword(s) in the first search box
3. Enter the word sources in the next search box, and select "Subject" from the Field menu
You'll notice that sources appears in the subject headings section of each item in your results list, indicating the presence or inclusion of primary sources in that item. Depending on the period being studied, it can also be helpful to limit your search by publication date.
Other search terms that might help you find primary sources include:
- correspondence
- letters
- sermons
- chronicles
- records
- diaries
- personal narratives
- memoirs
- interviews
- speeches
NOTE: This is just a tip - it will NOT always give you results.