A library can be a bewildering place. For many middle and high school students, libraries are a labyrinth of stacks, databases, and jargon. Those with homework or projects requiring research often ask: Where do I start?

The Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP), one of the largest special collection libraries in the country, has the answer: Here.

Part of its commitment to education, HSP offers a student mentor program Tuesday through Friday after school October through May to help students one-on-one with their research or National History Day project.

Trained volunteers work with students to identify sources for their research in HSP’s collection of over 21 million items. With personalized attention, mentors guide students in all aspects of research: how to search for items, analyze and evaluate sources, develop an argument, and create bibliographies. Mentors also help students to transcribe documents and edit papers to ensure historical accuracy and clarity.

No appointments are necessary. First-time students will be paired with a mentor and given a research orientation. Students with specific questions or those wishing to get extra help may contact Kim McCleary, HSP’s Education Manager, anytime (kmccleary@hsp.org). Grade 6-12 students are welcome to research in HSP’s historic Library and Archive for free.

Located at 1300 Locust Street, HSP’s collections span 350 years of history, with materials ranging from Martha Washington’s cookbook to photographs of our country’s most recent immigrants. Students researching at HSP are able to view primary source materials first hand. This tactile connection to the past cannot be underestimated.

"HSP and Enterprise Holdings Foundation share an ongoing commitment to spark student’s interests in history through hands-on experiences and exposure to a variety of records and documents,” said Beth Twiss Houting, Senior Director of Programs and Services at HSP. “We are proud to work with the city’s students to share the joy and utility of historical research.”

Other resources for students and educators, including unit plans, primary sources, and professional development opportunities, may be found online at hsp.org/education.

What: Free one-on-one research assistance for students at HSP’s Library and Archive.

Where: The Historical Society of Pennsylvania

When: Tuesdays-Friday 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.. No appointments are necessary.