Working dog picture research at State Library Victoria

Key facts

Institution

State Library Victoria [source]

Starting resource

Picture research guide [source]

Search beyond a breed name

Try the district, property, agricultural show, photographer and type of work as well as dog and sheepdog. Historic cataloguing may describe the broader scene rather than each animal in it. Keep a list of promising collections and search terms so later identifications can be checked systematically.

Use the picture guide

The Library provides a dedicated picture-research guide and explains access to images online, including searching beyond its own holdings through Trove. Follow an image back to its full catalogue record to learn what is established about the creator, date and subject rather than relying on a thumbnail caption.

Separate observation from identification

Describe what is visible before naming a breed, dog or handler. Record whether an identification comes from the catalogue, writing on the item or a later contributor. An apparent working setting can guide further research but does not by itself establish a competition, pedigree or specific agricultural task.

Prepare a request or publication

Save the catalogue identifier and exact question if contacting the Library. For publication, follow the record’s rights and reproduction instructions and retain the required credit. Keep a research copy distinct from any supplied publication file. If a new identification is supported by documentary evidence, ask how it can be submitted without replacing the provenance of the original description.

Common questions

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• State Library Victoria: Picture research (opens in a new tab)

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