Using Names Lists for Social Network Analysis

Abstract

In this paper, I discuss using digital names lists compiled from analog sources for social network analysis. Using examples from finding aids of archival collections, I demonstrate how social network analysis can show relationships and contrasts between different datasets of names or be used to show relationships within a single set of names. Data visualization tools such as Gephi aid in the analysis and present the relationships in an easily understandable way. Exposing relationships between collections or within a collection increases its findability.