📅 2026 Update: Changes at the Library of Congress

Since the original article was published, the Library of Congress has made several significant updates that enhance its services and resources. These changes impact how public libraries and legal researchers interact with the Library of Congress and access essential materials. The information from the earlier article will continue further down the page.

🎶 New Musical Works Terms

On August 10, 2026, the Library of Congress fully implemented the Library of Congress Genre/Form Terms (LCGFT) and the Library of Congress Medium of Performance Thesaurus for Music (LCMPT) for musical works. This update allows for better classification and searching of musical materials. Public libraries can now use these new terms to improve their cataloging and resource discovery for music-related items.

📜 N'ko Language Updates

The Library of Congress approved a new version of Mandekan languages in N'ko script on July 22, 2026. This provides updated resources for libraries serving communities that use this script. It highlights the Library's commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse languages.

📅 Public Comment Period

A proposal for a new N’ko Romanization Table was introduced on June 26, 2026, with a public comment period that ended on July 17, 2026. This allows users to contribute their feedback on how N’ko should be Romanized, fostering community engagement. Such actions demonstrate the Library's commitment to evolving its resources based on user input.

📝 Proposal Submissions

The Library of Congress continues to accept proposals for additions and changes to its Classification system. Users can submit these proposals via a PDF form available on the Library's website. This process ensures that the classification remains up to date and relevant to current needs.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🎶 New LCGFT and LCMPT implemented for musical works.
  • 📜 Updated Mandekan languages in N'ko script approved.
  • 📅 Public comment period completed for the N’ko Romanization Table.
  • 📝 Proposals for classification changes can be submitted online.
  • 📚 Enhanced resources for public libraries and researchers.

💡 Tips for Using Library of Congress Resources

It's important to go over the details of your own situation with your attorney. Here are some practical tips for utilizing the Library of Congress's resources effectively.

📖 Explore Classification Web Plus

Consider using Classification Web Plus, a web-based subscription service offered by the Library of Congress. This tool provides access to the complete Library of Congress Classification system, including all subject and name headings. It's beneficial for libraries seeking to enhance their cataloging efforts.

📚 Utilize the Ask a Librarian Service

Take advantage of the Ask a Librarian service offered by the Library of Congress. This service connects you with expert librarians and research specialists who can assist with specific inquiries. It's a valuable resource for those needing guidance on legal research or library services.

🔍 Access Authority Records

You can access authority records for free through the Library of Congress Authorities service. This allows you to search, display, and download authority records in MARC 21 format. These records can be used in local library systems to improve cataloging.

📜 Review Cataloging Publications

The Library of Congress offers various cataloging publications for purchase. These include the Classification and Shelflisting Manual and the Subject Headings Manual. These materials can provide essential guidelines for libraries looking to improve their cataloging standards.

🛠️ Participate in Proposal Submissions

If you have suggestions for changes to the Library of Congress Classification system, consider submitting a proposal. The Library regularly reviews these proposals, and approved lists are published after staff meetings. This is a direct way to influence the Library's resources.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

As there are no national paid services in this area that met the review threshold, this section focuses on free government and nonprofit resources available through the Library of Congress.

🥇 1. Ask a Librarian Service

The Ask a Librarian Service provides expert assistance to users at no cost. Librarians and research specialists are available to answer questions and offer guidance on various topics, including legal research. This service is particularly useful for those needing help with library resources.

🥈 2. Library of Congress Authorities

The Library of Congress Authorities service allows users to access authority records for free. Users can search and download authority records in MARC format, which can be utilized in local library systems. This service supports better cataloging and organization of library materials.

🥉 3. Classification Web Plus

Although Classification Web Plus is a subscription service, the Library of Congress offers free access to its basic classification tools. This allows users to explore the complete Library of Congress Classification system, enhancing cataloging and resource discovery efforts.

4️⃣ Reference Assistance

The Library of Congress provides reference assistance to the public. This service responds to information requests in line with its mission, helping users find the information they need. It's a resource for anyone looking to navigate the vast collections available.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 🔍 Verify if the service is free or has hidden fees.
  • 📜 Check if the resource is backed by a reputable organization.
  • ✅ Look for user reviews or testimonials about the service.
  • 📅 Confirm the availability of support and resources.
  • 🆓 Ensure free alternatives are not available before paying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📚 What are the benefits of using the Library of Congress?

The Library of Congress provides a wealth of resources, including access to classification systems and authority records. These tools help libraries improve their cataloging and enhance resource discovery for users.

📝 How can I submit a proposal for changes to the classification system?

Proposals for changes can be submitted via a PDF form available on the Library of Congress website. The Library regularly reviews these proposals and publishes an approved list.

🎶 What musical resources are available through the Library of Congress?

The Library of Congress offers resources such as the LCGFT and LCMPT for musical works. These tools improve the classification and searching of music-related materials.

🌐 How do I access the Library of Congress Authorities service?

You can access the Library of Congress Authorities service online. This service allows you to search and download authority records for use in local library systems.

📖 Where can I find cataloging publications?

Cataloging publications, including the Classification and Shelflisting Manual and Subject Headings Manual, are available for purchase through the Library of Congress. These guides provide essential information for cataloging practices.

💬 How does the Ask a Librarian service work?

The Ask a Librarian service connects users with expert librarians who can assist with inquiries. This service provides valuable guidance on library resources and research questions.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Library of Congress

Recent court rulings have highlighted issues surrounding library services, access to resources, and copyright. These cases connect to the role of the Library of Congress in providing public access to information and resources.

For more details, browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Introduction

The Library of Congress Authorities is a service that helps to standardize library catalogues by providing an authority on the proper forms of names, titles and subjects.  The Library of Congress Authorities is a service primarily designed for librarians, although it is open to the public and can be a valuable resource in learning more about an author’s alias or corporate name change.  There are 265.000 subject authority records and 5.3 million name authority records reflecting the sheer number of data managed by the Library of Congress.

The Authorities are updated daily Monday through Saturday to reflect the Library of Congress’s ever-expanding collection.  The records are organized by MARC 21 authority that comprises a series of codes and designations to identify the content.  There is established protocol for headings and the nature of the content.  The Library of Congress Authorities and the Library of Congress Catalog are not linked, although the information gleaned from the Authorities may help the researcher find relevant information in the catalogue.

How do I use the Library of Congress Authorities?

The Authorities website, authorities.loc.gov has a search function, but it’s important to note that this is not a typical search function.  Keywords cannot be used.  The authorities assume you already know the name or title of the desired work or author.  

Library of Congress Authorities


As a result, there are four search options:

• Subject Authorities Headings

• Name Authority Headings

• Title Authority Headings

• Name/Title Authority Headings

If one would like to search the authorities, click on the “Search Authorities” and the center and top of the Library of Congress Authorities website welcome page.

For this example, we will find the standardized, Library of Congress authority on William Shakespeare as it should be entered into a library catalogue.

1. To find an author, the name must be entered last name first.  Typing “William Shakespeare” will show you results about the William Shakespeare Company of Kalamazoo, Michigan. 

2. Enter the search text, in this case “Shakespeare, William” into the box.  Remember that this search does not support “keywords” so typing “William Shakespeare works” will not be helpful.

a. Omit all punctuation include apostrophes from names

3. From the list of results, select Shakespeare, William – 1564 – 1616 as this is the Shakespeare we want.  Clicking on the record will show all variants for this author’s name, from the name that the author used toward the end of his life “William Shakspeare” to the Chinese equivalent of the author’s name “Sha-shih-pi-ya.”

Sources: https://www.loc.gov/marc/authority/adintro.html