Reference Sources Library 150 Week 5
What is a reference source? A reference source is an information source that’s designed to be referred to for pieces of information, rather than read cover to cover. Available in print and electronically
They provide… brief factual and statistical information introductions and overviews of a subject area answers to frequently asked questions pathways and guides to other sources of information
Types of Reference Sources Encyclopedias Dictionaries Handbooks Almanacs Biographical Sources Atlases Chronologies Directories
Encyclopedias A book or set of books of information articles usually arranged in alphabetical order that provide background discussion and give a general overview of a subject. General Encyclopedia Brittanica World Book Subject specific (many available online) Encyclopedia of Religion Encyclopedia of Science & Technology Encyclopedia of Sociology
Almanacs Almanacs are usually annuals and provide a collection of facts, data, charts, lists, and statistics. Broad range of information General (Book of Facts ) Specialized (The Almanac of Higher Education) Use table of contents or index to find category
Gazetteers Information about countries Arranged by country name Gives: Population Industry Religion Trade Etc.
Atlases Books of maps General Road atlas Atlas of the world Specific Atlas of trade
Handbooks Subject specific compendia of information Place to find picky little details Wire sizes Melting points Tensile strengths
Dictionaries Lists of terms with definitions General Subject specific Often similar to encyclopedias
Directories General Phone book Specific
In-Class Exercise Specialized Encyclopedias Specialized Encyclopedias