How to Supercharge Your Nonfiction Research Using Your Library
Practical tips for children’s writers, researchers, and curious minds
Are you getting the most out of your library? đź“š In Digging Deeper Part One, I shared my best tips for using library catalogs, subject terms, and interlibrary loan systems to uncover high-quality sources—especially if you’re writing nonfiction for kids.
Whether you’re researching a brand-new project or strengthening the foundation of a current manuscript, your local (or digital!) library is a goldmine. Here’s a recap of the key takeaways from the session, plus direct links to each topic in the full video on YouTube.
🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Session
I kick off the webinar by explaining why libraries are my first stop when I begin researching any nonfiction or historical fiction project.
“I always start with my library and what I can get for free.”
Why Libraries Are a Researcher’s Best Friend
Libraries are treasure troves for secondary sources, which can lead you directly to rich primary sources—like letters, newspaper articles, or firsthand accounts.
“A really good secondary source… can lead you to some great primary sources.”
Understanding the difference helps you structure your research. I explain when and how to use each type, especially when writing for children.
“Primary sources are materials created at the time of an event.”
Using Subject Terms to Find Better Sources
Most writers search by keyword—but subject terms (a.k.a. subject headings) are your secret weapon. I show how to find and use them to unlock dozens of related titles in your library catalog.
“Start with keywords… then look at the subject headings a good book is tagged with.”
Advanced Search Tips for Library Catalogs
Filtering by audience, language, and date range can help you hone in on exactly what you need—whether that’s recent academic studies or comp titles for your next book proposal.
“Limit your search as much as possible to get more relevant results.”
WorldCat & Interlibrary Loan Basics
Can’t find a book at your library? No problem. I explain how to use WorldCat to discover which library has it—and how to request it through interlibrary loan.
“Start the interlibrary loan process early—it can take 6–8 weeks.”
Making the Most of Interlibrary Loan
When that hard-to-find book finally arrives, use your time wisely! I share how I capture information quickly and save it for future reference—even after the book goes back.
“I take pictures of every page I might need for fact-checking later.”
Accessing Research Databases for Free
Expensive databases like ProQuest and EBSCOhost might be free to you through your public library. I walk through how to find and use them.
“Always check and see what’s available to you for free first.”
Digital Archives & National Collections
From the Digital Public Library of America to the Library of Congress, I show how to explore digitized materials—and how to contact archivists for help getting what you need.
“Use finding aids to narrow down what you’re asking for.”
Librarians are your research MVPs. Most public libraries offer an “Ask a Librarian” service online—use it early, and don’t wait until the last minute.
“Librarians are your best research partners.”
đź”— Watch the Full Video
👉 Digging Deeper Part One: Using the Library for Nonfiction Research on YouTube
Whether you’re just starting your research or deep in revisions, this session is packed with tips you can use right away.
đź’ˇ Related Resources