The primary mission of the Library of Congress is to serve Members
of the Congress and thereafter, the needs of the government, other
libraries, and members of the public. The Library's staff will respond
to reference and information requests in accordance with this mission.
Correspondents are encouraged to use local and online resources. For
those seeking further assistance from the Library of Congress, the
staff will respond to their reference and information needs to the
extent possible. Because the Library participates in a global network
of librarians working electronically to answer questions, your online
reference question may be submitted to this global network for reply.
Please note that the scope of the services does not include: compilation
of extensive bibliographies, requests for information connected with
contests, completion of school or work assignments, translations or
research in heraldry or family history.