ENG 151&152 / PLT 155 Community & Local Research: Home

Librarians and other researchers know that researching local and community issues may be challenging. Just because you know of a local issue, does not mean that there is scholarly research readily available on it. You will likely have to use local newspapers or other local periodicals (Chicago Tribune, Northwest Herald, etc.), or interviews, etc. for specifics on recent and very local topics.

There may be scholarly information available for background and overall issues concerning your topic. As always leave yourself plenty of time for research and be sure to seek the assistance of a reference librarian if you need more help! 

The database below consists of reference e-books, useful for background information on your topic.

Use the MCC Library Catalog to find out what the Library has on your topic. Enter your search below to get started!

The databases below are good for finding articles on your topic.  Other databases may be useful for your topic as well, depending on the topic!  For example, research on local organic farming may begin with a look at articles in local newspapers with Newspaper Source.

Questions? To contact an MCC Librarian, click on

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Phone: 815-455-8762

Fall 2019 Hours

August 19 - December 13

Monday through Thursday:  8:00am to 8:30pm

Friday:  8:00am to 4:30pm

Closed September 2 for Labor Day

October 15 for Professional Development Day

& November 27-29 for Thanksgiving