How to cite archival material
It is very important to correctly cite the archival sources used in any work that will be made available to others. You and future researchers need a complete and accurate citation to access or obtain copies of the same material.
Archival sources have unique characteristics that make their citation different to that of published library material. Citations can vary depending upon the type of record consulted, whether it be a photograph, letter, video, etc.
In general, an archival citation progresses from the general to the specific and includes the repository name, name of the fonds or collection, title and date (if known), and reference code/identifier.
Basic credit should include: the element’s full title, McGill University Archives, fonds or collection number and, (accession number, including folder number and item number where applicable).
Here are two ways to a useful citation:
- McGill University Archives, Madeleine Parent fonds, MG469.
- Hockey programme, McGill vs. Yale, 1932. McGill University Archives, MG4319 (4319-02-261).
