Accessing Historical Records During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Obtaining Scanned Documents from Libraries Via Resource Requests
Category: Funding
Author: Alec Israeli, Humanities Correspondent
In the world of academia, starting early is key, especially when it comes to your senior thesis. This article emphasizes the importance of beginning your research well before your senior year, with a particular focus on funding your project.
For those who are just starting their academic journey, the thought of a senior thesis might seem daunting. But, it's never too early to start working on it. In fact, many archives offer services for resident librarians to scan and send materials from their collection, making research accessible even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To request archival materials to be scanned and pay associated fees during the pandemic, you generally need to:
- Contact the archive or library directly, often via an online form or email, to request scanning of specific materials.
- Verify the archive’s current access and scanning policies during the pandemic, as some may have limitations or contingency plans impacting service.
- Clarify the costs and fees involved for scanning and reproduction upfront.
- Follow the archive’s instructions for payment and delivery of scanned copies.
Remember, practices vary by archive, so it's best to:
- Visit the archive’s website for COVID-19 related updates and digital services announcements.
- Submit a request through their official contact or request forms, specifying the materials you want scanned.
- Inquire about scanning fees and payment processes if not stated online.
- Await confirmation on availability, cost, and access before proceeding.
No single universal process exists, but the typical workflow involves direct communication through online request forms or email, clarification on fees, and digital delivery of scanned materials to minimize in-person contact during the pandemic.
It's also worth noting that request fees for scans can add up quickly if a large batch is requested. To mitigate this, consider applying for departmental senior thesis funding early. For instance, a student who was researching how antebellum Mississippi Valley planters conceptualized the idea of labor applied for funding early in the spring of 2020.
Initially, the department allowed funding requests for summer travel. However, when the department later updated its funding parameters to prohibit summer travel, the student had to redo their application to accommodate the new restrictions.
Fear not, as there are other funding opportunities available. The Student Activities Funding Engine (SAFE) and Office of Undergraduate Research thesis funding opportunities can be useful for funding scanning requests.
So, start your senior thesis journey early, explore the wealth of resources available in archives, and secure funding to make your research dreams a reality. Happy researching!
- Undergraduate research, such as a junior paper or senior thesis, can benefit greatly from early funding, even before the senior year, as demonstrated by a student who reapplied for departmental funding due to a change in policies.
- As many archives offer online services for scanning materials, education-and-self-development, like undergraduate research, can continue amid online-education scenarios, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To secure funding for your undergraduate research, consider exploring various opportunities, such as departmental funding, the Student Activities Funding Engine (SAFE), or the Office of Undergraduate Research, in order to make your learning experience more comprehensive and successful.
