Primary resources are original works or texts. These can include novels and plays, poems, interviews, diary entries, newspaper articles, letters, and so on. In contrast, secondary sources are works about a topic. Examples include journal articles, scholarly books, biographies, and dissertations. Though, note that this distinction is not always cut and dry. Primary resources such as newspaper articles or essays can also be secondary sources in some contexts.The definition of primary and secondary sources can also vary by discipline. For more information on primary sources, check out the Primary Sources Research Guide.
You can find primary sources in many places, including (but not limited to) primary source databases, newspaper databases, and in special collections.
Emory Libraries houses numerous historical newspapers that are available in print, microform or online format. There is no one place to get started looking for newspapers, but the How do I find newspapers? Topic Guide has a great tutorial on how to find the newspaper you're looking for. If you are looking for Atlanta-specific newspapers, check out the Atlanta Newspaper Subject Guide.