Library Catalog

Finding Library Materials

The UMass Library Catalog is often the most appropriate place to begin your research. It enables you to search for materials in many different ways (e.g., author, title, subject, keyword, call number, journal title, etc.). When looking for materials on a subject, one useful way to begin is to identify subject headings. The red, multi-volume Library of Congress Subject Headings (Z695.L695+), located on the counter behind the Reference Desk lists all of the possible subject headings.

Subject Headings

Political science is a broad term to use in searching a catalog by subject. In fact, our catalog returns over 5000 entries if you enter the term political science. It's usually better to enter a more specific term.

Here are a few examples of terms that may help you narrow your focus:

Comparative Government

Democracy

Police Power

Political Parties

Postcolonialism

Revolutions

Separation of Powers

Utopias

World Politics

To find works on the political processes of particular countries, regions, cities, etc., enter the name of the place subdivided by Politics and Government. For example:

Massachusetts Politics and Government

New England Politics and Government

India Politics and Government

If you have questions at any time, please ask a member of the reference staff. We are here to help you.