Guides: PAID 111 Section 23: Streese (Fall 2024): Getting Started with Reference Sources

Getting Started With Reference

Reference sources are a good starting point.

These materials can

Provide background information
Get you familiar with terms and keywords and related topics for a particular subject
Help you choose, broaden, or narrow a research topic

Preus Library has both print and online reference sources. For online reference sources, you can click the links in this guide or in the catalog and go directly to the material.

If you see a Call Number listed (example: PS3607.Y37 T73 2020), then the source exists as a physical copy. The print reference books are located near the Technology Help Desk on the main floor of the library, between the computer lab and the Writing Help Center.

General Reference Sources

Gale Virtual Reference Library This link opens in a new window
A collection of over 3,000 reference works, covering all disciplines.
Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
An online collection of over 600 full-text reference works, including encyclopedias, dictionaries, and more.
Oxford Reference Online This link opens in a new window
This online source provides access to subject and language reference works from Oxford University Press. In addition to text, access is provided to maps and illustrations, timelines, web sites, and bibliographies.