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University of Texas University of Texas Libraries

Peer Research Consultant

Finding Books

Finding Background Information

Looking for something like Wikipedia but scholarly and appropriate for an academic assignment? Try these vetted, edited collections of scholarly encyclopedias, biographies, dictionaries, and bibliographies.

Tips for Finding Books

Browse Subject Headings

Library of Congress subject headings can be useful tools for identifying books on a particular topic.


Browse the Stacks

Another effective way to browse books is by going directly to the shelves, or "the stacks," as librarians call them. To browse physical books in the PCL, we recommend starting with books cataloged in the HVs, on 4th Floor in Section S and the 5th floor in Sections J and K. 

Not sure how to navigate the PCL stacks? See our Floor Plan and Stacks Guide. Don't hesitate to ask library staff for help!

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