Reference Resources
Reference resources (such as encyclopedias) are a great place to start your research journey. They give you a "big picture" understanding of a subject. Some reference resources, like dictionaries, can be helpful as you work through your researching and writing process.
Dictionaries
Online Reference Resources
Begin your research by seeking some general background information about your topic using reference resources.
- Biography Reference Bank This link opens in a new windowBiographies. Current & historical. Worldwide.
- Encyclopedia Britannica Online This link opens in a new windowA general knowledge English-language encyclopedia.
- Gale Literary Index This link opens in a new windowAuthor and title listings from over 130 literature resources, complete biographies on authors and critical essays on their writings.
- Gale Virtual Reference Library (formerly Gale ebooks) This link opens in a new windowSpecialized encyclopedias and dictionaries on the arts, business, education, environment, history, law, medicine, science and social science.