The Evolution of the Book - The Printing Press

Discover more about the artifacts and exhibitions on myLOC.gov with new teacher materials and student activities.

To explore all the Library of Congress has to offer, visit the Library's main Teachers page.

For Teachers

Featured Lesson Plans

Waldseemüller’s Map: World 1507

Waldseemüller’s Map: World 1507

The 1507 World Map by Martin Waldseemüller is one of the world’s most important maps. Students investigate this map by looking closely at the details of each section of the map and then draw conclusions on the revelation of this new and unusual world to the people of 1507.

Grade Level: 6-8

Explore »

Political Cartoons

Political Cartoons: Finding Point of View

Analyzing political cartoons can provide a glimpse into key moments of U.S. political history. In this activity, students closely examine political cartoons about the Stamp Act and explore the point of view of their creators.

Grade Level: 9-12

Explore »

Thomas Jefferson's Library: Making the Case for a National Library

Thomas Jefferson’s Library: Making the Case for a National Library

Students examine a letter written by Thomas Jefferson and identify techniques he used to persuade Congress to purchase his personal library in 1815. Students consider a selection of those books and write their own persuasive letters urging the books’ purchase.

Grade Level: 8-12

Explore »

Try More myLOC Lesson Plans »

Schedule a Group Tour

Groups of 12 to 60 participants from organizations and schools (fifth-grade level and above) may make reservations for a guided tour by contacting grouptours@loc.gov or (202) 707-0919.

Start Planning »

For Students

Knowledge Quest

Play Knowledge Quest

Go on a quest to discover the hidden meanings of rare treasures from the Library of Congress. Examine historic objects, conquer every challenge, and claim a special reward. View Quest(s) »

Featured Online Activity

Maps and Mapmakers: Seeing What's on the Map

Maps and Mapmakers: Seeing What's on the Map

Students examine Martin Waldseemüller's 1507 map of the world to discover a new way of thinking about what was important to the mapmaker.

You need Flash 9 or higher to use this interactive.

Grade Level: 4-8

Explore »

Try More myLOC Activities »

Featured Interactive Display

The Buccaneers of America
Explore the pages of The Buccaneers of America, chronicling the bold feats of raiders who disrupted shipping on the high seas and terrorized Caribbean settlements. Explore »

Check out more Interactive Displays within the Exhibitions »

Books for Young Readers

Learn more about the objects and exhibitions on myLOC.gov with these great books.

Secrets of Ancient Cultures: The Maya
by Arlette N. Braman

Benjamin Franklin: A Life Well Lived
by Leni Donlan

Thomas Jefferson: Father of Liberty
by Jerri Ferris

Complete List of Books for Young Readers »