Old Books and White Gloves - Yes, Please!

One of the things I miss most from my college days is research. I believe that we, as historians, public historians, and scholars, have a deeply ingrained need for primary sources and the ability to dig into texts, manuscripts, and photos to pick out a story. Ah, the smell of old paper! Then we grow up and get jobs and find that there no longer is time for research.

During the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to get back into the archives and renew my love affair with primary sources. At some point, that first day, wearing gloves and relegated only to a pencil, I paused a moment to enjoy the foundation of my profession. Here, I share it with you.