In many cases, you will find that the information you need is available at your local library. Your local library will often be able to respond to your query more quickly than the Library of Congress, and is better able to identify and respond to your specific and ongoing needs.

Public libraries are often listed in the government section ("blue pages" in the U.S.) or business section ("yellow pages") of your local telephone book. You may also use these Internet resources to find libraries by name or location:

Libdex (The Library Index): International library directory, search by keyword or browse by country. The keyword search is most effective for finding libraries in the U.S.; the browse feature works best for finding libraries outside the U.S.

Libweb: International directory of library websites. Search by keyword or browse by region. Maintained by the University of California and mirrored at several sites worldwide.
Public Library Locator: Searchable directory enabling users to find U.S. public libraries by name, state, size of collection, number of staff and other criteria. From the U.S. Department of Education.
State Libraries: List of U.S. state library websites. Developed by the Library of Congress and the American Library Association.