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Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH)

What are Library of Congress Subject Headings?

The Library of Congress establishes the terminology that is used for subject headings in the library catalog.  Librarians include topical subject headings in the record when cataloging a book, video or other item for the library. Each heading is within a hierarchy of broader and narrower terms on the same general topic.  When you "Browse an alphabetical list of headings" and select Subject Heading, the result is the alphabetical list of Library of Congress Subject Headings.

Why should I use Library of Congress Subject Headings?

A researcher can use Library of Congress to discover materials in the library on specified and related topics.  Searching by subject heading is more specific than a keyword search.  Keyword searches often produce a large number of titles, many of which are not on the desired topic.  A subject heading search may identify items on the desired topic which do not include the keyword that was used in the search.  Browsing through a list of related terms (broader and narrower) is an efficient way to see where a particular topic is located in the of related topics.   The list of related terms is a good way to identify additional vocabulary for searching.

 

How can I consult the Library of Congress Subject Headings?

The headings (subject authorities) are available in an online database maintained by the Library of Congress.  A slightly dated printed edition of LCSH is on a shelf in the reference area.  Browsing through the five red volumes is a helpful introduction to the structure of the established headings.

How do I use Library of Congress Subject Headings?

1. Enter a term in "Browse an alphabetical list of headings" and select Subject Heading.  The result is the alphabetical list of Library of Congress Subject Headings.  Page forward and backward to view related headings.  If the term you entered is not an established heading, it may appear on the list with the related term that is an established heading.  Select that heading to view items with the established heading.

2. Do a broad keyword search and examine the items in the results list.  Identify an item on your specific topic and look at the full record.   Click on the subject heading that is closest to your specific topic.  In the pop-up window, select "Go" under See a list of similar headings.  Page through the headings and subheadings.

3. Search an alphabetical listing the Library of Congress Subject Headings in the five red books in the library hallway.

4. Search the Library of Congress Subject Headings online on the Library of Congress website.   Librarians use the term "Subject Authorities".  This site is not particularly user-friendly because it was designed for librarians.