Subject Headings are special search phrases used by librarians to identify a major topic. They are sometimes difficult to guess, but through keyword searching you can find the appropriate subject heading.
W&M Libraries has an Outstanding collection on Atlantic History, but there are always going to be books we don't own. Use WorldCat & Interlibrary Loan to order books we don't currently have in the collection:
This link opens in a new windowThe W&M Library looks small from outside, but the collection of books is massive (part of the library is underground, and we use high-density shelving).
Start with your topic. Example: I'm interesting in the consumption of goods in the British World during the colonial period.
Key Terms:
British Empire OR Great Britian
Consumption OR Trade
Results aren't great. Try "Great Britian" AND consumption
Narrow the results with subjects or publication date.
I see "Great Britain" AND consumption are both subjects. Narrow the search and find fewer results:
If you already found books you like on your topic, search them in the catalog to see what subject headings they use. This will point you to new books!