Sourcerers: contribute to the research ecosystem

Let’s shine the spotlight on the key members of our Sourcery community — our Sourcerers! These archive users put their skills to work scanning materials for Researchers unable to visit the reading room in person. At the same time, they ease the burden on archivists and librarians who can help Researchers learn about collections but aren’t always able to provide scans for distant patrons. This is why Sourcerers are essential – they provide a critical service within the research ecosystem by providing the “last mile” of delivery for archival scans. 

Sourcerers are helpful heroes for a few reasons. First, they help historians and researchers gain access to important documents that otherwise wouldn’t be accessible. This allows researchers to double check dated translations and confirm quotes and notes. It also helps researchers uncover new historical actors, explore multiple locations, and track down thrilling leads to help clinch their argument.  

Sourcerers also help institutions share their unique holdings with researchers across the country. This is particularly the case for institutions in places that might be difficult or expensive for researchers to visit and who aren’t able to staff document delivery services. Sourcerers help these institutions expand their reach beyond their immediate locale. 

Finally, Sourcerers help lessen institutional workloads by fulfilling simple scan requests. When Sourcerers complete scan requests, archives staff have more time to consult with researchers and a greater ability to work on more advanced projects.