Learn to Love History!

The following are keywords to use when communicating with experts in different fields of research. Knowing some keywords and phrases to use helps those who are trying to assist you better understand your research questions. This is not intended to be a complete list, but it should help researchers working with historians, librarians, and archivists. History Words & Phrases Anthology Historiography (Book) Review Critique Historical Analysis Primary Source Document Artifact Material Culture Public History Heritage (Education) HP-Historic Preservation Historical Survey Citation Footnote Chicago Style Primary Source Secondary Source Independent Researcher Research Request/Proposal Letter Reference Letter Library Words & Phrases Catalog Source Resource Bib Record Annotating Reference Services Lookup Requests Print Source Electronic Resource Database Citation Acquisitions Closed Collection Circulati...

Often the biggest hurdle to overcome for new researchers is the fear of visiting an archive or research repository for the first time! Many researchers, including some seasoned ones, get so anxious about visiting a repository in person that they just avoid going entirely.  While many places have digitized parts of their collections and put them online, there are still many things researchers can miss out on by letting their nerves get in the way. Tips for Your First Visit! 1) Call or email ahead of time and ask about rules and regulations.  -Contact the repository at a time when it is not super busy or right when they open or close.  Send a quick email or check their website for hours of operation. 2) Ask a fellow researcher who has already been to the repository for info and advice.  If your research buddy is available you can always bring them along for moral support.   3) Ignore condescending attitudes! This can be challenging, but rememb...