Guide to Archival Research

Review these tips before visiting the University Archives in the Killam Memorial Library or the Agricola Collections at the MacRae Library. It is also a good idea to review our glossary of archival terminology and learn about proper techniques for handling archival material.

Researchers are invited to contact the Archives with any questions. You can also schedule one-on-one research consultations.

Before viewing records and other materials, you must provide your name, contact information, and photo ID. Food and drink are prohibited in the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room. 

Our Using the Reading Room page outlines your responsibilities as a researcher to help us preserve the holdings of the Dalhousie University Archives and Special Collections.

  You will need your DalCard or some form of Photo ID to gain access to materials in the University Archives.  Staff require that you leave your ID card at the desk while you look at the archival material. 

You should have a clear plan for taking notes while conducting archival research. Notes should include:

• Name of institution
• Title of fonds / manuscript collection / record group
• Title of series and/or file 
• Date(s) of material
• Reference codes
• URLs or DOIs if applicable
• Exact title or description of item
• Annotation of information that interests you
• Use quotation marks to record verbatim transcriptions of factual data and other excerpts that you intend to use as a cited primary source
• Record complete citations for all material used during the research visit, even the material you do not intend to use
• Consider writing summary notes for each fonds or collection consulted during the research visit
  • Chronological scope and arrangement
  • Whether all or part of the fonds or collection was reviewed
  • List of items which you plan to use
  • List of items which seem irrelevant at the conclusion of the research visit

Although food or beverages cannot be consumed in the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room, it's a good idea to bring snacks on your visit.  Archival research can be time consuming.   Snack bars, raisins, and fruit provide much-needed energy to get through long visits.  Food and drink may be consumed in other areas of the library and university.