Tips for using the Keyword field in Explore Historical Images

When you search historical images, your search results are books of unindexed images.

Tips

  • Each book of images includes a cover with important information. The cover can have a title, volume, creator, place, and dates. When you search, try to use keywords that you think would appear on this cover.
  • In some cases, it is helpful to use a name as a keyword. Enter a last name and a first initial. Some books have family names on the cover.
  • In general, the name of a place is your most effective keyword.

AND and OR

You can use the operators AND and OR in the Keyword field.

  • AND: Finds search results that match both search terms.
  • OR: Finds search results that match either search term.

To work correctly, follow these guidelines when using AND and OR:

  • Type AND and OR in English.
  • Type AND and OR in capital letters.
  • Type a space before and after the word.

For example:
Harmon AND Virginia: Finds collections with both the word Harmon and Virginia.
Harmon OR Virginia: Finds collections with the word Harmon or Virginia or both words.

Steps (website)

  1. Click Search
  2. Click Images.
  3. Click More Options.
  4. In the Keyword field, enter search terms.
  5. Click Search

How do I get started in Explore Historical Images?
Tips for filtering by record type in Explore Historical Images
Why does Explore Historical Images not have a name field?
Getting the Most from Your Search: Understanding the Search Records Page

Was this helpful?