Archival records are the documents created, received, or accumulated by a person or organization in the course of the conduct of affairs, and preserved because of their continuing value. They are the raw primary source material from which history is written. Since we collect almost any medium that records information, the format of these materials will be diverse and may include letters and diaries, photographs, maps, architectural drawings, objects, computer tape, video and audio cassettes (These are known as primary sources.). The size of any given donation may range from a single document to 100 linear feet.

Unlike archives, traditional libraries generally collect books and other published items known as secondary sources. Libraries generally maintain a comprehensive catalog listing all of their holdings. Archivists have developed specialized tools to help researchers identify sources. These include finding aids, indexes, and guides. Finding aids are research tools that describe and locate primary source archival records. History San Jose does not have a comprehensive index to all its holdings.

History San Jose Research Library finding aids are available at the Online Archive of California.

Seven Helpful Tips

1. Often, the best way to begin research is with secondary sources. Secondary sources are the books, journals, newspapers, and other published materials that you find in libraries.
2. Questions relating to general historical or factual information, statistical information are usually better answered by the reference librarian in your local library.
3. Doing research in archival sources is different from working with secondary sources such as books and journals. Archival materials are unique items and are described differently than printed matter – it is usually more difficult to identify relevant sources.
4. The History San José Research Library contains only materials from San José and Santa Clara County that are unique, original, unpublished sources (known as primary sources). Most but not all of the collections are at least 25 years old.
5. When you ask for assistance, be prepared to explain your project or topic clearly and to discuss or demonstrate what searching you have already done on your own. It is helpful to describe what kinds of records (textual, maps, photographs, electronic, etc.) you are looking for.
6. Contact the Research Library before visiting. This ensures the materials that you wish to examine are available for research and the repository will be open when you arrive.
7. Please be aware that all requests are handled in the order received and that a response will take time.

Please see our collection highlights for a description of our collection.