Tips for using the Keyword field in Explore Historical Images

Share

Tips

  • Some images come from books. A book cover can have a title, volume, creator, place, and date. When you search, try to use keywords that could appear on the cover.
  • A record type is a good keyword in combination with an initial search for a place. Examples include census, marriage, deed, or will.
  • In some cases, it is helpful to use a name as a keyword. Try a last name and a first initial.
  • 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 uppercase 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?

Was this helpful?