Connecting Undergraduates with Primary Sources: A Study of Undergraduate Instruction in Archives, Manuscripts, and Special Collections

by Allison, Anna Elise

This study presents the results of a mail survey of archives, manuscripts, and special collections departments in United States universities with membership in the Association of Research Libraries. The survey examined the nature and extent of instruction that these departments provide for undergraduate classes. It also addressed other instructional services accessible to undergraduates and the impact of undergraduate use on these departments and their collections.

The survey produced eighty-five usable responses. The majority of participants reported that their department provides classroom instruction for undergraduates. Their responses show that undergraduate instruction sessions are usually conducted for small classes, are often related to a specific course assignment, and generally address the nature of primary sources and department procedures for using original materials. While many departments find their space and staff stretched by increasing undergraduate use, most respondents felt that the challenges and benefits of serving undergraduates are worthwhile.