Douglas D. Schumann Library & Learning Commons: Find Primary Sources Online: What Are Primary Sources?

What Are Primary Sources?

Primary sources are contemporaneous materials that are closely related to the subject that is under study. Such materials may include books, maps, diaries, manuscripts, letters, artwork, contemporary newspaper articles, advertising, photographs, films, recordings, and social media.

Guidance on the Use of Primary Sources

Citing Primary Sources
Citation guidance in APA, Chicago, and MLA styles.
Copyright & Fair Use (Stanford U.)
An excellent overview of legal issues surrounding copyright, fair use protections, and works in the public domain.
Primary Sources on the Web: Finding, Evaluating, Using
A guide from the American Library Association.