those sources that represent the first-hand experience or observation of the creator, which occurs at a given place and time. Primary sources can take many forms, from speeches, artwork, a novel, a poem, photography, original research, original reporting, memoirs, advertisements, etc. More examples are listed in the other pages of this guide. An item that captures a moment of time by a creator can be considered a primary source.
those sources that fall outside the above definition of prmiary sources, including sources such as books, articles, etc that report, provide analysis, critique, review, or comment on a topic. Review the definition and examples on secondary sources from the earlier pages in this guide. Again, what might be considered primary or secondary is based on a variety of things, such as context, discipline, purpose or use of the source, and when the source was produced/published. Secondary sources can be found through most of the resources listed in this guide such as OneSearch, library databases, and the open web.
Having trouble determining whether a source is primary or secondary? Speak to your instructor or to a friendly librarian. See options below for contacting a librarian. We are here to help!
Search across GCC's Gale Primary Sources databases, including Archives of Sexuality and Gender, Political Extremism and Radicalism, and Women's Studies Archive.
Follow the instructions below to find primary sources in the Academic Search Complete Database.


Newspaper articles that document an event historically are excellent primary sources.
Glendale Community College | 1500 North Verdugo Road, Glendale, California 91208 | Tel: 818.240.1000
GCC Home © 2025 - Glendale Community College. All Rights Reserved.