Primary source kits for your classroom
Rent curated boxes of real historical materials—delivered to your school and ready to teach with.
The Everything is a Primary Source historic artifact borrowing service gives educators a powerful way to connect students with the past through real pieces of popular culture from the last two hundred years. Nothing engages curiosity and critical thinking quite like students holding an authentic primary source in their hands.
From wartime letters and vintage advertisements to ephemeral artifacts and everyday items of the last 200 years, our collection allows students to explore history beyond the textbook, website or computer application. Each kit features genuine artifacts carefully selected to match historical themes and time periods. To make classroom integration seamless, we also provide ready-to-use lesson plans and engaging activities designed to spark inquiry, promote students to think like historians, and align with educational standards.
Overview
How it Works
Renting from our collection is straightforward. Just browse our catalog, select the topics you need, and we’ll ship them directly to your school or organization. When you're done, use the included prepaid return label to send them back—no hassle, no stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the kits cost?
Pre-curated boxes of primary sources are $25.00 each, and those assembled by request start at $30.00 per kit (extra fees may occur with distance and time dedicated to curating kit). Schools or departments looking to purchase a series of primary source kits should contact us for a quote.
How does one request a kit?
Upon arriving at the Reserve a Kit page, educators will request a premade kit or describe the topics and time period they look to teach. A purchase order will then be sent to your school or organization. Once completed, your package of artifacts will be on their way!
Is there a time limit for borrowing?
Each box contains a return shipping label that is good for 90 days.
May I pick-up and drop-off in person?
Yes! If you live in New Hampshire or Southern Maine you are welcome to schedule a time to visit the EPS Pop LAB to browse the collection and create your own kit. There is a considerable savings with this method, and you’ll have the chance to record an episode of the Everything is a Primary Source Podcast.
What kinds of historic artifacts will be delivered to my classroom?
EPS To Go! circulates artifacts of everyday life, such as periodicals, advertisements, postcards, booklets, sheet music, comic books, letters and other ephemeral odds and ends. While these items are not founding documents or a handwritten Gettysburg Address, they hold considerable value in what they inform us about time and place. EPS To Go! pieces are not replicas or facsimiles, they are genuine pieces of the past.
How can I use these in my teaching?
The collection of primary sources you will receive are incredibly versatile; ready to be incorporated into any existing primary source exercise you routinely employ in your classroom. In addition, several activities can be accessed digitally once you receive your package in the mail. Each of the included lessons have been taught in social studies classes for years, and proven to be engaging and effective.
Are there restrictions with using pieces of the collection?
Yes. Limitations of use, such as the prohibiting of photocopying, are in place to ensure the longevity of the artifacts. They also help educate students on topics in museum studies, fair use, and how to think and act like historians.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions.