Getting started with research can be overwhelming. Here are a few places we recommend you start!
Check with the experts:
Research Guides - in-depth guides to our resources on a wide variety of topics. Formats include books, databases, journals, media, and external websites.
Research Centers - explore collections by reading room and research center. Review their collections and reach out for assistance directly.
Explore our online resources:
A to Z Databases - includes subscription databases and free resources. Please note that some subscription databases require you to be on-site for access.
Chronicling America - Access historic newspapers from all fifty states and DC.
Congress.gov - Explore current and historic information on bills, laws, and the legislative branch of the government.
Digital Collections - Access digital versions of some of our collections.
Today in History - Provides information and links to sources about a specific event in history.
Search our online catalog:
Our online catalog provides you with a record of materials in our physical collections. Use it to locate materials you want to access during an on-site visit with us.
Use catalog.loc.gov to reach our catalog webpage. A few tips:
- Before starting your search, take a moment to make a list of possible keywords.
- Click the "Explore the LC Catalog" button next to the Quick Search bar to access the catalog dashboard where you'll find Advance Search and Browse options.
- Utilize Advance Search for BOOLEAN searching, using AND, OR, NOT to connect your keywords, and the "Exact phrase" option in place of quotation marks around a phrase.
Find an item that is of interest? Open the item's catalog record to view more information about the item, including tagged subject headings - controlled vocabulary we use to connect related items through our catalogs.
For more tips and information about using our online catalog, explore our Catalog Help Research Guide.
Need further assistance? No problem! Send us your question or request for materials in advance of your visit via Ask a Librarian. From the list, pick the option that best matches your question or topic and fill out the reference form. Responses are typically sent within 5 business days.