ArchiveGrid and ArchivesWest are sites that search across archives to find very specific materials and collections. ArchiveGrid searches worldwide while ArchivesWest searches across the West Coast, in the Orbis Cascade Alliance.
Research using manuscript material is different from more typical library research. The unique nature of the material dictates that there are stricter security procedures -- users need to register, manuscript materials need to be requested, photocopying is limited, etc. The following tips can help you when using the manuscript material in WSU Libraries' Manuscripts, Archives, and Special Collections:
The Manuscripts, Archives, and Special Collections (MASC) area of the WSU Libraries contains unique, unpublished records created by organizations and individuals in the conduct of their activities. Collections of unpublished personal papers, organizational records, and historical photographs are described and inventoried in detailed guides known as collection guides or finding aids. A collection guide helps the researcher to identify boxes or folders of interest with a manuscript or archival collection. A typical collection guide provides background information on the organization, person, or family who created the papers or photographs, an overview of the collection and its arrangement, and a detailed container list. Many, though not all, collection guides are available to view on the MASC website.
Some collections in MASC related to Asia Studies include:
Use Search It, WSU Libraries catalog, to help identify manuscript collections:
To get a better idea of the manuscript and archival material available in the WSU Libraries, go to the MASC homepage, where you can browse by type of collection: manuscripts, university archives, photographs, rare books and special collections, and digital collections. You can also visit Manuscripts, Archives, and Special Collections in person--its on the Terrell Library Ground Floor, accessible from the atrium.