Documents and primary sources
Locate historical documents and firsthand material for closer study.
Research support
Reference Desk
Start with a question and follow a clear route into Maine’s primary sources, books, maps, population records, geography, public institutions, natural systems, and history.
Start here
Four useful reference routes
Use these collections for visual context, statewide data, settlement patterns, public records, and historical research.
Books about Maine
Continue research through a focused collection of book resources.
Browse with maps
Approach communities, regions, and natural features geographically.
Citations and bibliography
Review supporting references and source pathways for further reading.
Subject directory
Find a research topic
Choose a broad field, then open a focused entry. These links cover frequently requested Maine subjects.
People, society & culture
CollegesNewspapersMovies made in or about MainePulitzer PrizesWomen — FirstsNative AmericansGovernment & civic life
State GovernmentLocal GovernmentLegislatureElectionsPolitical PartiesCountiesCommon questions
Questions the desk can help answer
Each question leads to an existing entry where the subject can be examined in greater context.
Population
- How many people live in Maine?
- How many people live per square mile?
- Which are the most populous communities and counties?
Geography
- How large is the state?
- What are the highest mountains?
- What are the longest rivers?
- What are the largest lakes?
- How long is Maine’s coastline?
- How did glaciers shape the state?
History
- When did Maine become a state?
- Which is the oldest town?
- Where can I read a brief history of Maine?
- Where are historical primary sources collected?
Government & public life
- How is state government organized?
- How does local government work?
- How many counties does Maine have?
- What are Maine’s official state symbols?
How to use the desk
A practical research path
Move from a broad question to a focused entry, then use its references and connected subjects.
1
Frame the question
Identify the place, period, institution, species, or public issue you want to understand.
2
Choose a subject
Use the directory or search to reach the most relevant reference entry.
3
Follow evidence
Consult maps, primary sources, books, citations, and related entries where available.
4
Broaden the context
Follow connected geography, history, government, ecology, or population topics.
FAQ
Using the Reference Desk
Quick guidance for selecting sources and navigating the collection.
Where should I begin with a broad Maine question?
Start with the subject directory or the search field. Broad entries such as geography, history, economy, state government, and population provide useful context before you move to a narrower topic.
Where can I find original historical material?
Use the documents and primary sources collection, then consult the citations and bibliography for additional source pathways.
Can I research communities and counties?
Yes. Begin with cities and towns, counties, population resources, or the geographic map browser.
How can I research Maine’s natural environment?
Use entries on climate, weather, geography, geology, forests, wildlife, mountains, rivers, lakes, parks, and nature preserves.
Where are demographic questions covered?
The population, census, largest communities, and county population-density entries offer routes into statewide and local demographic information.
What if I am unsure of the right search term?
Consult Search Terms, the Glossary, or Navigation Options to identify another route into the collection.