Bibliography Styles Handbook     

MLA Format: Multivolume works in a bibliography entry

When using more than one volume of a multivolume work, cite the total number of volumes in your bibliography by placing the number and "vols." after the title and before the publication information. You will then make reference to specific volumes and page numbers within the text of your paper.

Lucas, Robert E., Jr. and Thomas J. Sargent, eds. Rational Expectations and Econometric Practice. 2 vols. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1981.


When using only one volume in a multivolume work, insert the number of the volume you are using between the title and the publication information for that volume.

Lucas, Robert E., Jr. and Thomas J. Sargent, eds. Rational Expectations and Econometric Practice. Vol. 1. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1981.


You may also add the total number of volumes at the end of the entry. If the volume has a different title from the entire work, your citation will appear as follows:

Arendt, Hannah. Imperialism. London: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1968. Vol. 2 of The Origins of Totalitarianism. 3 vols.