Reference sources are used to locate general factual information on a particular topic.They usually are scanned for specific pieces of information, rather than from beginning to end. Examples of reference sources include:
Reference sources often provide an excellent starting point for a research project. They are a good place to find general background and introductory information, specialized terminology, and lists of references for further research. Think of them as a way to find your bearings in a particular subject area before digging into more detailed scholarly sources.
Reference sources provide background or introductory information for speeches, short writing assignments, and are a great starting point for more in-depth research papers.
The database, Credo Reference, is an excellent reference databases but Western Library has others as well. Link to them below.
Use this database to understand basic concepts taught in your courses. It's also a great database for the first step in your research process. It contains short articles from encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks and other reference sources on a wide range of subjects. Get started on your assignment or research project by learning about key people, places, dates, events, concepts, and ideas related to your topic.
Discover information about cultures around the world. Use this database to find statistics and data, and learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of people living in different countries.
