Suggested Citation Formats

These examples cannot cover all possible citation needs, but the logic of the following formats can be adapted to other citation requirements. The purpose of a citation is to identify clearly the source used so another researcher may locate it. Include the basic information: item description, date, box number, collection title, and Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan. Add to this as needed for special cases. Consult standard sources as the Chicago Manual of Style. If you have any questions, the reference staff will be glad to provide assistance. The telephone number for the Bentley Historical Library reference staff is (734) 764-3482 and the e-mail address is:   bentley.ref@umich.edu.


  1. Letter:
    Frank Murphy to Prentiss W. Brown, 2 November 1935, Box 9, Prentiss W. Brown Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  2. Diary:
    Rudy Ludwig diary, 12 March 1946, Box 3, Ludwig Family Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  3. Volume:
    Account Book, 1864-1865, Box 1, German Christian Agricultural and Benevolent Society of Ora Labora Records, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  4. Microfilm edition of originals:
    Alphadelphia Association Reports of the General Council, 1845, microfilm edition, reel 1. Microfilm and originals at the Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  5. University Publications:
    University of Michigan Department of Biology, Gnat's Eye Gnus Newsletter, Vol. 91-92, No. 45 (8 September 1922), p. 2, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  6. Photographs:
    Minimum citation for publication and display purposes: Josephine Gomon Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

    Full Citation: Eleanor Roosevelt, Detroit, 1935. Folder "Eleanor Roosevelt Visit to Detroit, 1935," Box 11, Josephine Gomon Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan.

  7. Web Site:
    "Michigan's Rose Bowl History," Exhibit, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan. http://www.umich.edu/~bhl/RoseBowl (4 March 1998).