Archivists are fellow historians and important allies, as any practicing historian can confirm. Along with cataloging and maintaining collections, the archivist's job is to help researchers and students navigate the archive so the material they collect and preserve can be used. You will find archivists familiar with the processes of historical research and writing and ready to assist you in finding appropriate material for your subject. As well as confirming whether the sources you are planning to work with are appropriate, an archivist can help with suggestions for other sources and also for ways to look at the topic based on what they know is available in their collections. When you call to arrange your visit, therefore, you may want to ask whether it makes sense to time your visit so you can meet with a particular archivist who is especially familiar with materials that will be useful to you and the issues that interest you.
Archivists are there to help researchers.
But every archivist will expect you to have a good general understanding of your broad subject before you start asking him or her questions. Be thorough in your secondary-source background reading, and go to the archives knowing dates, names, places, and the main outlines of the historical debates surrounding your topic. This guide includes links to webpages maintained by several of the archives referenced here, where you will often find reference to the specific regulations and procedures observed by these archives. You will find, though, that all archives share a commitment to preserving their holdings from harm. Be prepared to store your coat, backpack, purse, and other personal articles in a designated area, and to register on entering.