This workshop series takes place in the Main Library's Special Collections Seminar Room, 1-West

This four-part workshop series is designed to help prepare graduate students for conducting fieldwork in archives as a part of, or the whole of, their research. The sessions will first explain what archives are, how they work, and the theory and methods behind acquisition, processing, and accessibility of archival materials. Participants will then learn how to find archive, to search their holdings, and to read a finding aid, and tips will be given on how to request, use, and organize material. The workshop will also include a session on digitized and open access archives (including a discussion on the pros and cons of these archives for scholars) and a final session on the ethics of archives, particularly relevant for scholars working in subaltern archives (but also arguably important for all scholars), including strategies for how to partner and work side-by-side with the creators or stewards of the materials being used for research.

The workshop is open to all graduate students who intend, or are considering, undertaking fieldwork in archives, and is not limited to history graduate students. Undergraduate students and faculty may also register. 

The LibGuide for this workshop can be found here: http://libguides.lib.msu.edu/c.php?g=728426.