Background Research and Research Question

Select a topic: Start by choosing a broad topic or question based on your assignment and personal interests.

Refine your focus: Narrow your topic by asking questions like Who, What, Where, and When. If needed, email the Archives and Special Collections for guidance on refining your topic or developing search strategies. See below for more details on research consultation services.

Develop a Search Strategy: Create a list of relevant keywords, dates, and names of individuals, groups, locations, or events to streamline your research and improve search efficiency.

Gather background information:

• Consult secondary sources like books, articles, and trusted online content to build foundational knowledge on your topic.
• Review bibliographies, footnotes, and works cited sections to find additional references, including archival resources.

Locate primary sources:

• Use online finding aids to identify collections relevant to your topic.
• Email the Archives to schedule an appointment to view collections or arrange a research consultation. See below for more details on research consultation services.

Prepare for your visit: Familiarize yourself with the University Archives and Special Collections Reading Room Policy before your appointment to ensure a smooth and productive visit.

Research Consultation

This service may include developing paper/thesis/dissertation topics derived from our collections, providing guidance on utilizing collection finding aids efficiently, and providing support in locating relevant materials at external institutions for further research on selected topics.

For more information about available research services, visit Archives Research Support.

Where to Start Your Research

Cowles Library

Use SuperSearch, Cowles Library’s online catalog, to locate databases, books, journals, videos, newspapers, and more. Simply enter your search terms into the search box to begin.

University Archives and Special Collections

Select "Finding Aids" or "Digital Collections" from the search box, then enter your search term. You may also choose a specific collection from the list below.

Collections

• University Archives
• Drake Digital Collections
• EscholarShare
• Special Collections
• Political Collections
• Web Archives

Learn more about the collections within the University Archives and Special Collections.

Find & Use Our Materials

Learn how to find and use archival materials.

Plan A Visit 

The University Archives and Special Collections is available to all researchers by appointment. For information about our hours and what to expect during your visit, please refer to our Visit page, and review our Reading Room Policy for guidelines on handling materials in our collections.