Reference Resources
Reference material typically consists of background information and subject overviews that are found in encyclopedias and dictionaries.
Encyclopedias and dictionaries were traditionally published as large single or multi-volume tomes; today, many encyclopedias and dictionaries are published in electronic formats that can be accessed online. Some are freely available on the Internet, and some are subscription databases accessed through the Library's website.
Reference sources can be very broad in subject matter and scope, such as the Encyclopedia Britannica, or very narrow in scope, such as the Dictionary of Human Resources and Personnel Management.
Almost all research projects can be enhanced by first finding appropriate background material using reference resources.
Recommended Databases
- Credo This link opens in a new windowOnline reference library that provides access to a selection of encyclopedias, dictionaries, thesauri and books of quotations in general and subject-specific disciplines. Credo includes interactive mind maps.
- CQ Researcher - SAGE This link opens in a new windowReports that explores a single current issue in the news in depth. Topics range from social and teen issues to environment, health, education and science and technology.
- Opposing Viewpoints in Context - Gale This link opens in a new window
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One-stop source for information on social issues.
