How to use our collections

Primary sources are firsthand accounts, eyewitness evidence, that documents something that occurs.

Types of records often considered primary sources:

• Artifacts

• Contemporary news articles

• Correspondence

• Diaries

• Film/video of event

• Government documents

• Interviews

• Meeting minutes

• Memos

• Personal narratives

• Photographs

• Research Data

You will get access to the materials much faster if you contact the archives in advance. Here's why:

• Off-site/Library Storage Building materials can take up to seven business days to retrieve. Please email archives@iastate.edu to request material and schedule your visit.
• Related materials: Even if you have something specific you want to see (and know how to request it), we may have suggestions for other materials.
• Check the holdings: As with most archives, many of our collections don't have detailed descriptions. If you're looking for a specific document or piece of information, contact the archives before making a trip so that you won't be disappointed if the collection doesn't have what you're looking for.
• Research Help: We understand that using archives can be complicated. We know our collections and are truly happy to help!