Back in 5th grade, our teacher had us write an essay about a famous explorer, whose names she had put into a hat.
I drew the name Vasco da Gama, and spent the weekend with the library’s card catalogue, pencil and paper.
Not sure if I’ve ever forgiven him, as I can still recall his bearded visage in the encyclopedia.
May he RIP. :)
I remember card catalogs and Readers’ Guides for Periodicals.