A klapper is a finding aid, usually a physical book or binder with a name index. Klappers can often be found in reading rooms of archives. They are disappearing as they are being scanned or entered into databases.
Finding out what klappers exist can help you create a research plan for a visit to an archive. Some archives have a catalog or research guide on their website that indicates what klappers they have. Usually, you can only find out in the reading room itself. There may be a list of available klappers or you can ask the staff. I love just browsing the shelves since that often sparks new research ideas.
Klappers of burgher books, Amsterdam City Archives. Photo by author.
About Yvette Hoitink
