Ephemera

Ephemera are materials created for a specific, temporary purpose. Although these items are often saved by individuals for sentimental reasons or by chance, they can contain valuable information concerning people, places, and dates associated with events and the culture and economy of the time. Researchers can use ephemera as either a primary or secondary source depending on the topic they are researching and how the research question is framed.

Postcard of Pennsylvania Station, New York, undated. National Trust for Historic Preservation Library Collection, Special Collections, University of Maryland Libraries.

Ticket for Gator Bowl held on January 1, 1948 in Jacksonville, Florida. Special Collections, University of Maryland Libraries.