1. Reference Sources Library 150 Week 5

2. 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

3. 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

4. Types of Reference Sources Encyclopedias Dictionaries Handbooks Almanacs Biographical Sources Atlases Chronologies Directories

5. 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

6. 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

7. Gazetteers Information about countries Arranged by country name Gives:  Population  Industry  Religion  Trade  Etc.

8. Atlases Books of maps General  Road atlas  Atlas of the world Specific  Atlas of trade

9. Handbooks Subject specific compendia of information Place to find picky little details  Wire sizes  Melting points  Tensile strengths

10. Dictionaries Lists of terms with definitions General Subject specific Often similar to encyclopedias

11. Directories General  Phone book Specific

12. In-Class Exercise Specialized Encyclopedias Specialized Encyclopedias