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Ask a Librarian: an online reference service from the Library of Congress
Before you ask

Services we provide
 Basic research assistance related to manuscript collections in the Library of Congress
 Answers to queries requiring resources unique to the Library of Congress Manuscript Division
 Response within 5 business days

Services we cannot provide
 Extensive research in our collections due to staff and time constraints
 We maintain a list of freelance researchers who will conduct research in our collections for a fee

Visit the
Manuscript Reading Room Web page

We suggest that you
 Exhaust your use of secondary sources first
 Read our reference correspondence policy
Search in for
Getting answers

Ask a Librarian:
If you have a reference question, proceed to the online form; get answers via email.

Contact us by phone or fax:
  Phone: (202) 707-5387
  Fax: (202) 707-7791

Send us written correspondence*:
  Manuscript Division
  Library of Congress
  101 Independence Ave. SE
  Washington, D.C. 20540-4680

* please read - information on mail delays

Also, try consulting these online resources:
 Library of Congress Online Catalog (To limit your search to collections in the Manuscript Division, set limits by location to Manuscripts.)
 Manuscript Division finding aids online
 Online collections in American Memory
 National Union Catalog of Manuscript Collections (NUCMC)
 Do you have a question about registering your manuscript for copyright? Try the Copyright Office
 Do you have a question about music manuscripts? Try the Performing Arts Reading Room
 Do you have a question about the records of the United States Government? Try the National Archives

 

   The Library of Congress >> Ask a Librarian Home
    May 19, 2003