Jefferson Library Reference
The Library welcomes reference inquiries from Foundation staff and the general public regarding the life, times, and legacy of Thomas Jefferson and the Monticello plantation. There is a great deal of information available on our Web site as well, and we encourage you to explore the links below to find your way to the information you need.
For more information on our reference services and policies, please see our Services and Policies page.
Research Tools
- Thomas Jefferson Portal (Online Catalog): Search for books, articles, Web sites, and other information resources on Thomas Jefferson and his world.
- Thomas Jefferson Encyclopedia: Over a thousand articles on Thomas Jefferson and his world, written by Monticello researchers.
- Monticello's Online Resources: Explore the wealth of information Monticello has made available online.
- Databases: Access journal articles, primary source documents and more through our subscription databases.
- Full-text digital collections at Hathi Trust: Jefferson Biographies, Jefferson Papers
- Early American History Sites search
Guides & Tutorials
- Researching Thomas Jefferson
- Researching Miscellaneous Topics
- Suggested Reading List
- Tips for Using the Thomas Jefferson Portal (Online Catalog)
- Instruction Sessions at the Jefferson Library
Ask Us
- Ask a Reference Question
- Recommend a Resource
- Request an Interlibrary Loan (Foundation staff only)
- Request an Appointment
This page outlines reference sources available to the web visitor ranging from a search engine for the holdings of the Jefferson Library, including their access to multiple data basis with access to primary research, to Thomas Jefferson quotable quotes. You can even ask for specific information from our ever-helpful reference librarian, Anna Berkes!