* Online databases. There are a number of online databases that contain letters written by historical figures. For example, the Library of Congress has a database that contains over 1 million letters, and the Folger Shakespeare Library has a database that contains over 25,000 letters.
* Archives and libraries. Many archives and libraries hold collections of letters. For example, the National Archives and Records Administration holds the original copies of many of the letters written by the Founding Fathers, and the British Library holds a large collection of letters written by British authors.
* Private collections. Some people own private collections of letters. These collections can be very valuable, and they may be passed down from generation to generation.
* Attic trunks. Sometimes, old letters can be found in attic trunks or other storage containers.