Have you ever wondered where on earth your local librarian found the answer to that extremely specific question you asked? You may assume that they are just better at Googling than you, but that is not the case! Well, sometimes it’s the case. But they also use a variety of sources that may not fit your idea of traditional reference materials and that you might not have access to at home.
MLC has a large collection of reference books on a variety of topics that we use to answer some of the more niche questions we receive. Do you need a recommendation for a book about how biology and technology came together for a high-schooler's invention? Check out our Senior High Core Collection book, which recommends From Gecko Feet to Adhesive Tape by Wil Mara. It describes the journey scientists took to create a new kind of adhesive by looking at the mechanics of gecko feet. Are you on an Estonian vacation and need your cab driver to get you to the airport on the double? MLC staff can use our Estonian-English Dictionary and Phrasebook to let you know to say, “Kiirustage!” or “Hurry up!” If you find some literature from the Order of Anti-Poke-Noses in some family papers, you'll need to know that this organization was founded in Searcy County, Arkansas, to fight the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan. The preamble of their constitution was to fight against, “any organization that attends to everyone’s business but their own,” courtesy of The International Encyclopedia of Secret Societies & Fraternal Orders by Alan Axelrod.
A common request at MLC, and at libraries in general, is for assistance with genealogy questions, whether it’s finding one specific document or helping to fill out a family tree. Most people think of census records when they are looking for information about their ancestors, but we often consult land record books to confirm residency or check the WPA papers for local gossip or tales of accomplishments in music or writing. Other lesser-known sources of genealogical information are state department reports, if your ancestor worked for state government, donated material to MDAH or the state library, or was incarcerated.
If you are doing some very specific research, check out your local public library. They may surprise you with the questions they can answer! If they don’t have what you need, MLC is here as a backup. Feel free to text or call at 601-208-0868, email us at mlcef@mlc.lib.ms.us, or chat with us anytime from this blog or our Information Services page. We will use all the reference books and resources you've never even heard of that are at our disposal to help you find your answer!
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