Introducing LCM, a New Library of Congress Magazine

What a difference a year makes.

Last year at this time, we were putting to bed the final issue of the Library of Congress Information Bulletin—not just for the year 2011, but for all eternity. This venerable publication, which was first published on Jan. 23, 1942, as a mimeographed staff newsletter during World War II, evolved into a four-color printed publication produced using digital technology.

It’s been my pleasure to have served as its editor since 2005, following in the footsteps of a host of very talented editors—each maximizing the print, graphics and distribution technology available at the time.

With the advent of e-zines, iPads and other mobile devices, it was time not only to consider new distribution methods, but to rethink the audience, content and visual presentation of the Library’s magazine. With input from existing and prospective readers, we did just that.

So without further ado, it is my great pleasure to introduce LCM—the re-imagined, redesigned and renamed Library of Congress Magazine. The bi-monthly, general interest magazine features education and entertaining content about current and historical events through the prism of the Library’s unparalleled collections and expert staff.

In the premiere issue, we’ve taken the opportunity to re-introduce the Library by re-telling its history in connection to the War of 1812.

In its pages, readers will learn how to use the Library, how the Library acquires its collections, what’s new online and for sale in the shop, what exhibitions can be viewed in person and online and how donations support the Library. This issue, and those that follow, will be beautifully illustrated with historic images drawn from the Library’s collections and contemporary photographs.

The magazine’s print circulation of 12,000 includes Members of Congress and libraries and educational institutions throughout the nation and the world. The publication is also accessible free online.

We hope you like our new magazine, and that it will lead you to explore the millions of books, manuscripts, photos, movies, maps and music in our collection, either in person or online.