English 123: College Research Paper:
Using Michener Library to Find Sources

Library Exercise: This exercise will introduce you to the Library of Congress and the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCHS). Go to the library to complete this assignment. You will need these items to complete the assignment:

  • Computer (you can take your laptop to the library. Do not leave it unattended)
  • Course textbook: The Bedford Researcher
  • The LCSH guide (the big red books)
  • Be sure to ask a librarian for assistance
  • Click here to download this exercise as a Word Document or print this page to record your answers.
  • Assignment due Feb. 1

1. View Understanding the Library of Congress Subject Headings to understand how the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) are used to refine and define a search for library sources that are cataloged according to the Library of Congress. Answer these questions:

a. what is your general topic:_________________________________________(in your own words)?
b. What is the general LCHS heading where you will begin looking for your topic?_______

c. Where in Michener Library do you think most of your sources will be located? (Remember that books are shelved in alphabetical order and by floor of the library. Remember, too, that your topic may fit in more than one category.)

2. Locate the Library of Congress Subject Headings books (often called the "big red books") in Michener Library. Answer these questions

a. what is your general topic? (see #1). After looking for your general topic, do you have to modify terminology? Write down new terms:_____________________________

b. write down the subheadings that you will use to search for sources.

___________________________________

___________________________________

__________________________________

___________________________________

3. Using The Source, look for reference books (specialized dictionaries and encyclopedias in the Michener collection. Provide the following information for three reference sources:
a. Title of work:___________________________________________________
b.Editors (Names)_________________________________________________
c. Date of publication_______________________________________________
d. Publisher and city of publication_____________________________________
e. Library of Congress call number_____________________________________
f. location in Michener Library (found on screen, then give physical location, ie the floor in Michener)________________________________________________________
g. Provide the keyword(s) you used to search for the reference book and explain how you came up with the terminology

________________________________________________________________

4. Use your Palmquist textbook to look up the MLA citation for your reference source and provide a correct MLA citation for each reference book you found in your search (only 3 required, but you may want to make note of others that might be useful)