2024 Iowa Library Association Fall Conference

Few libraries offer the wealth of historical information offered by Iowa’s largest university libraries - yet very few Iowa citizens will travel to these often distant and imposing campuses. Fortunately, there are many, many freely available online historical primary sources that could be used locally by Iowa residents and the librarians who serve them - IF - they can find them. Jaycie and Chris have plenty of ideas and plenty of experience on where to look and how to look, and they are eager to share.

Participating librarians will gain a deeper understanding of evolving digital archives and the treasures they offer. Participating librarians will learn why so many free resources are “hidden” from researchers using Google. Participating librarians will learn how to use specialized Google search strategies to help locate relevant digital archives. Participating librarians will be able to identify and search digital archives that offer freely available historical newspapers, magazines, and other sources. Participating librarians will learn strategies and skills for searching and browsing archival finding aids and sources.