Book Sources
The library has many reference books that contain nothing but primary sources.
We also have books in the general collection that contain primary sources. Here’s a helpful hint: check the book you are using for your research; does it include primary sources? So many nonfiction books do and they often go overlooked.
To get you started, here is a long list of books you can use.
Finding Primary Sources in OneSearch
One of the easiest ways to search for primary sources in books is to head to OneSearch.
You will find a "OneSearch" button in the top, center of the library webpage. OneSearch allows you to search EVERYTHING the library has access to, including print books and eBooks, plus journal articles and more from our databases. Click on the picture below to access OneSearch.
To find primary sources in OneSearch, type in your topic and the word “sources.” For example "gold rush sources." Or "civil war sources." Or "Aztec sources."
This won’t work for everything, but it’s a quick and easy way to search.
If you know the Library of Congress subject term, you can do a Subject Keywords search using that term and "sources." Whenever you see "sources" in a subject heading, this means that primary sources are included in the book.
If you still have trouble or are looking for something more specific, please speak with a librarian and we'll be happy to show you how to find one.
Primary Sources in Online Encyclopedias
Many of our online encyclopedias are filled with primary sources. The library has access to many online encyclopedias. Online encyclopedia articles are a great way to find out more information about a topic you don't know much about--it's like using a scholarly version of Wikipedia! You can use the search bar to look for articles on the topic you are interested in. Many of the books listed in the reference section, are available online through Gale eBooks.
Click on the picture below to get started. You may be asked to enter your BC email address and password.
