A guide to using archival sources

How are archives different from libraries?

Archives

Closed stacks

Original unpublished materials

Unique material

Materials are organized according to the way the person or organization kept their records (original order) and are organized by creator

Groups of materials are described at different levels: fonds, series, and item level

Items do not circulate

Libraries

Open stacks

Published materials

Other copies of material may be present in the library

Materials are organized using call numbers and by subject

Material is described at an individual level

Items circulate