Because OneSearch searches all library databases and the library catalog from one search box, it can be a powerful tool for identifying primary sources.
After conducting a search on a general topic, you may be able to limit the search to Primary Source Documents. On the list on the left-hand side of the results page, under Source Types, select Show More (at the bottom of the list). Choose Primary Source Documents, if available.
Advanced Search can be used when Primary Source Documents are not listed under Source Types. Click on Advanced Search under the OneSearch search box. Place your subject search terms in the first search box. In the second box, enter the subject term or terms that are most relevant to your topic. Some examples from OneSearch include:
In some cases it may be helpful to scroll down to Date Published and limit the date of your search to sources published during the time that an event occurred or within a person’s lifetime.