Navigating archives can be tricky! Here is how to decipher an archival record.
YES: Cite in-text with the original information, and include the container in the bibliographic citation. (Use the advanced level on NoodleTools.)
NO: Red Flag! See if you can locate the information elsewhere.
How do you know if it is a primary (P) or secondary (S) source?
Is the story from the perspective of someone who was there? (P)
Is the information consistent with what was available at the time of the event? (P)
Is the publication date the same or reasonably close to the event date? (P)
How do you know if it is a primary (P) or secondary source (S)?
Who is the author, interviewer/ee, or orator in relation to the topic(s)? Are they or is what they are saying the main topic? (P)
Is the "voice" the same as the topic (P), or is the voice about the topic (S)?
How do you know if it is a primary (P) or secondary source (S)?
Is it raw, uninterpreted data? (P)
Is the information presented in its original, interpreted form? (P)
Is the information presented using the tools available at the time? (P)
