If researching Washington and Lee University's history, a great place to start is with W&L's Special Collections & Archives. Remember, not all primary sources are available online.

The process of navigating archives, and archival material, differs conducting traditional library database research, in that:

• Archival research can requires an in-person visit. 
• Specific words used for types of materials, like ephemera or incunabula
• Users search "finding aid" collections in order to identify relevant sources--not merely searching a library catalog.

Thankfully, the Society for American Archivists, created a guide that highlights:

• How archives function
• How to identify appropriate archives for your research
• How to access historical materials and research at an archives

Access the full guide by clicking this button!  

W&L's Special Collections & Archives collects, preserves, and makes accessible materials supporting the diverse teaching and research needs of our students, faculty, staff, and the greater community. For questions, SpecialCollections@wlu.edu.