Some things to remember when doing primary source research:
Start with secondary source readings and focus your topic.
Make sure there are primary sources available on your topic.
Primary source research is more time consuming than doing standard research using published (secondary) sources. You need to plan well and allow plenty of time.
Don't expect to find everything online! Plan to visit a repository to browse finding aids and talk to the archivist (see Visiting Repositories for more details on planning your visit).
Scrapbook of clippings relating to a performance of La Tosca, starring Sarah Bernhardt, undated. From the Margaret Blaisdell Byrd New York City Music, Opera and Theater Scrapbooks. Amherst College Archives and Special Collections.
