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.