A finding aid is a guide to the contents of an archival collection. It stores bibliographic information about the collection as well as a list of the contents of a collection.  We are pleased to provide finding aids for the cataloged manuscripts collections through our ArchivesSpace database: https://findingaids.lib.catholic.edu



  • Instructions for Using ArchivesSpace / FAQ

    How do I find what I am looking for in ArchivesSpace?

    The search box on the ArchiveSpace landing page allows for searching using keywords as well as a number of different fields. This search can be limited to just collections, or even specific items.

    If, however, you are looking to browse the database, you can select one of the categories on the top of the page:

    • Collections: This category allows you to browse all of the finding aids in the database
    • Digital Materials: This category allows you to browse the digital resources in the database. These will provide links to Islandora, our digital collections database.
    • Subjects: This category allows you to browse the subjects used in the database. Selecting one of these will show all records that are associated with that subject.
    • Names: This category allows you to browse the names of organizations and people used in the database. Selecting one of these will show all records that are associated with that name.

    How do I search the contents of a collection?

    On the right hand side of the finding aid, there is a menu entitled "Collection Organization". This menu shows what contents are stored in the collection. These contents are organized hierarchically, so you may need to use the ">" to expand the list to find what you want. Above that area is a search bar, which can also be used to find materials within the collection.

    How do I get a print-friendly version of the finding aid?

    There is a link at the top right-hand side of the page labeled "Print" that can be used to get a PDF version of the finding aid.

Please note: