What is the Library of Congress?
When I talk with teachers about online primary sources from the Library of Congress, I often spend a few minutes describing the Library itself.
Exploring the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building: The Carol Highsmith Photographs
My favorite treasure trove of gorgeous images showcasing the Jefferson Building is by the distinguished American photographer Carol M. Highsmith.
Teaching with the Raw Materials of the Law: Primary Sources and the Legislative Process
For those of us at the Library of Congress who work with K-12 teachers, a crucial part of our work is promoting the effective instructional use of primary sources. Primary sources—the raw materials of history and culture—are very powerful tools for teaching.
What Makes a Primary Source a Primary Source?
Is a newspaper a primary source? A political cartoon? A map? A lithograph? Is an excerpt in a textbook a primary source? How about a digitized facsimile? All of these questions came up during the Library of Congress’ Summer Teacher Institutes.
Finding Treasures in an Archive of Historical Newspapers: Chronicling America
On the Library of Congress Web site, Chronicling America provides free access to millions of historic American newspaper pages from 1836-1922. Although the sheer volume of stories might seem daunting, Chronicling America makes it easy to explore the pages.
Looking Harder: Inspiring Close Observation
How can students be inspired to look closely–and think carefully–while they observe?
Bring the National Book Festival to Your Students: Resources for Kids and Teachers
But you don’t have to come to Washington to bring the National Book Festival to your students. The Book Festival’s Kids and Teachers site is the key to enjoying the Book Festival experience no matter where you are.
The American Memory Timeline: Finding Primary Sources from throughout U.S. History
Looking for primary sources relating to a specific period in United States history? Try using the American Memory Timeline from the Library of Congress.
The Huexotzinco Codex: Taxes and Turkeys from Sixteenth-Century Mexico
In a court case between the Spanish government and indigenous residents of a small town in Mexico, who do you think would win?
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Library of Congress Primary Sources
National Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15th to October 15th, and the collections of the Library of Congress are rich in primary sources for your students to explore.