“Ask an Archivist” is a new virtual reference opportunity to meet with an archivist to discuss how to use digital resources for your research questions. This service lets you ask questions while receiving a walkthrough of the Archives’ digital materials.

An Ask an Archivist appointment is a 30-minute Microsoft Teams session with a reference archivist. During the session, the reference archivist will suggest where to begin your research and provide an overview of digital materials already available on the Delaware Public Archives website.

Reference archivists cannot provide direct virtual access to records during the appointment. Follow-up requests to access specific records identified during the appointment can be made via email to archives@delaware.gov.

The Mabel Lloyd Ridgely Research Room
The Mabel Lloyd Ridgely Research Room
Schedule an Ask an Archivist appointment
Choose the Ask an Archivist service.
Schedule an Ask an Archivist Appointment

What To Expect

  1. When scheduling your Ask an Archivist appointment, you will be asked questions about your research; these help the reference archivist prepare for your appointment.
  2. You will receive an email with a link to a Microsoft Teams meeting the morning of your appointment. Join the meeting at your designated appointment time.
  3. During your appointment, the reference archivist will ask questions to understand your research better and suggest records of interest.
  4. After your appointment, you will receive an email with links to the digital resources discussed.

Appointment Availability

Ask an Archivist appointments are available on Thursdays at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time).

Appointments are not available when the Archives is closed.

Disclaimers

  • The virtual appointments will not be recorded.
  • We recommend having access to a microphone during your appointment to communicate with the reference archivist.
  • We do not recommend using a smartphone or mobile device for the appointment, as it may prove difficult to navigate.
  • We cannot provide technical assistance in preparation for your Ask an Archivist appointment.
  • Reference archivists can only make recommendations during the appointment; they cannot research on your behalf.
  • If building closures, staff absences, technical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances require it, we reserve the right to cancel and reschedule your appointment. If so, a staff member will contact you by email.
  • Please note that if you do not log in to your session within 10 minutes of your start time, your appointment will be canceled.
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