Finding graphic novels in the collection is not an entirely straightforward task. There is no single Library of Congress Subject Heading (LCSH) to cover the entire format or genre. Below are some hints for useful LCSHs that will help you navigate CLIO. To use them, search under SUBJECT.
You might think that this would cover all pertinent titles:
This is a recently-added LCSH, however, that is not in wide use. It will locate some titles, especially recent ones, but not all.
This main heading is used quite often, but it can describe both titles that are graphic novels and titles that are about graphic novels. There are numerous sub-headings under this main heading, such as the geographical one shown above.
Some main headings are more genre-specific:
Some sub-headings may sound like they are for titles that are only about graphic novels, but this can be deceptive:
Since many graphic novel writers and artists use their medium to examine the medium itself, however, you may also find actual graphic novels under this heading.
You may also search on specific characters as LCSH:
Other possibilities for searching may include the “Comic books, strips, etc.” heading as a subheading:
Of course, you can also search by title or author rather than by subject heading. Keep in mind that both the writer and the artist associated with a given title may be found using an AUTHOR search:
These examples should help you locate titles of interest. If you require further assistance, or have any questions about the collection, please contact the Graphic Novels Librarian, Karen Green (contact info to the right)