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Western Libraries

Alaska

Brief guide highlighting archival and other resources available through Western Libraries Archives & Special Collections programs.

Useful Web Links

Databases

Western Libraries provides access to a wide variety of article and research databases (a WWU log-in is required for off campus searching, or access databases from within the library). In addition to the examples listed below, please see the Libraries' online guide to Databases A-Z and/or ask staff at the Libraries' Research Desk for assistance.  

Introduction

This guide suggests useful resources for studying the history of Alaska, focusing on resources available through Western Libraries' Archives & Special Collections. It is not exhaustive  - contact Western Libraries Research Desk or Archives & Special Collections' staff if you need assistance finding more information.

 

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Pavlof Mountains, Alaska. Galen Biery Photographs #152, Center for Pacific Northwest Studies, Western Washington University.

From the Library Catalog

Try searching the Libraries Catalog, Summit Catalog or WorldCat for both published and archival sources. Ask an archivist or librarian if you need assistance. Useful subject search terms may include:

  • Alaska
  • Alaska -- History
  • Rossi˘ısko-Amerikanska︠i︡a Kompani︠i︡a -- History
  • Russka︠i︡a pravoslavna︠i︡a ︠t︡serkovʹ -- Alaska.
  • Russia -- Colonies -- America.
  • Haida Indians
  • Tlingit Indians
  • Tsimshian Indians

Or try narrowing down a topical term, for example:

  • Fur trade -- Alaska -- History
  • Indians of North America -- Alaska

Film Footage

Footage documenting the aftermath of the March 27, 1964 earthquake and tsunami, and the resulting destruction wrought on Kodiak City, on Kodiak Island, Alaska. The March 27, 1964 quake was at that time the largest earthquake ever recorded to strike the United States.

KVOS Channel 12 Films, Center for Pacific Northwest Studies, Western Washington University (Broadcast April 2, 1964).