Beginning the Research Process in BA
Submitted by Amanda Cannata on March 25, 2012 - 2:28pm
Written 3/19/2012
Today I went to the Biblioteca Nacional to get the research process started there. In order to access any documents pre-1930, I needed to apply for researchers' credentials. The process was much less painful than I expected it to be. The staff was super nice, and unlike my first day at the library in Santiago, I was able to communicate well, confirming that my Spanish has indeed improved significantly in the last four weeks.
To apply for the credentials I had to fill out some forms, submit passport photos, photocopies of my passport, letters of introduction, and my CV. I didn't have a copy of my CV with me, so they let me print a copy from their computers (!) and told me where I could photocopy my passport downstairs. I didn't have any more passport photos (used them all in Santiago), so they also told me where to go to get some new ones taken. I got all these things done and submitted my forms, so I should get my credentials by Thursday at the latest. In the meantime, I'll go over to the National Archives to start my research there.
I met a history professor from the states for lunch, which was nice, and I now know where to find some tasty vegetarian food. The professor is here on sabbatical, studying centennial celebrations in Argentina and Brazil, so his project is quite similar to mine. It was nice to chat with someone who has seen some of the documents and materials I'm hoping to look at while I'm here. He also pointed me in the direction of an interesting edited collection of essays about the Argentinean centennial that I spent the afternoon reading. Since it was published post-1930, I was able to order it before receiving my credentials.
Yesterday I spent the day in San Telmo, exploring the huge craft and antique market that takes place there every Sunday. It was pretty amazing to see all the stands and people milling about. There was also a lot of live music, and I was happy just to stand and listen for a while to all the different groups playing along the street. Here are some pictures:
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| This band, which was playing at a black cultural center, was really fantastic. |
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