Chicana/o Studies Research Guide

Background research can help you:

• narrow down a broad theme into a smaller topic
• learn the basics of your topic
• develop a list of keywords to use when searching for more sources
• develop a research question and/or thesis statement

Starter databases:

• simple, browseable databases meant to help students with background research
• often contain credible reference articles, but can also have viewpoint essays
• a good alternative or supplement to Wikipedia

Best starter databases:

Gale eBooks Tutorial for Chicana/o Studies

• This database has subject-specific encyclopedia articles which provide simple topic overviews.
• A perfect way to get to know your topic before diving deeper into scholarly research.
• Watch the video below to learn more:

Browse eBooks Online

• ELAC Library offers many eBook collections with free 24/7 access for our ELAC students.
• You will be asked login with your LACCD account before an ebook loads. Review off-campus login directions here.

Browse Books in the Library

• These books can be found at the Main Campus and/or the South Gate Library.
• Write down the book's title and call number to find the book on the shelf.

• If you're in the library, you can also browse the library's Chicano section or Stacks by call number:

  • E 401-415 Mexican-American War 

  • F 184 History of Latinos in the U.S.

  • F 870 Ethnic Groups in California

  • F 1200-4000 Latin American History, Leaders, and Politicians 

  • LC 2667-2698 Education and Latin Americans

  • ML 3475 Latin Music

  • N  6538 .M4 Latin Art and Artists

  • PQ Spanish and Latin Literature and Authors

  • PS 153 Latin American Literature and Authors