The Chicago Manual of Style is widely used inside and outside of academia. 

A closely related book: A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses and Dissertations, by Kate Turabian, is perhaps more commonly used in academic work.  This style is widely used in history, art history and other disciplines.

Footnotes/endnotes include more information than a standard in-text citation, reflecting the assumption that readers in these disciplines want that information as they read.

There are several variations to Chicago/Turabian style - in-text citations, footnotes and endnotes.  Be sure you know what your professor wants you to use.

The Chicago Manual of Style is available in the library at call number Z253.U69 2010.

A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses and Dissertations is available in the library at call number LB2369.T8 2007.