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Guidelines for Working with Primary Sources

Primary sources offer a firsthand account of events, from the perspective of participants or eyewitnesses, and can be found in a variety of formats.

Types of Primary Sources


Letter from Arthur Enyart to Alfred J. Hanna ‘17

Letters, Diaries, Interviews, and Autobiographies

Items documenting personal experiences, such as correspondence, journals, and memoirs.


The Rollins Bugler, 1937

Audiovisual Materials

Photographs, films, music, and art works connected to historic events, as well as maps and blueprints.


The First Rollins College Catalogue, 1885

Official Publications and Government Documents

Original records of an institution or organization, and publications produced by the U.S. Government.



Rollins Freshman Beanie, 1960

Artifacts and Memorabilia

Artifacts and Memorabilia including historic items, such as clothing, awards, and everyday objects. These include ephemera (items such as greeting cards, tickets, etc...that were originally created for short-term use).