Reference materials are the best source for finding essential basic facts (a.k.a. background information) for any topic of research. Reference resources arrange information on people, events, times, dates, locations, statistics, and other useful facts. Reference sources are available in paper and as searchable electronic databases.
Examples of reference resources include bibliographies, biographies, encyclopedias, dictionaries, indexes, statistics, atlases, and almanacs.
Check out our Reference Sources Research Guide for more options!
The library staff have found that these databases are excellent places to start!
Use the library catalog to search for any reference source you may need. We have both physical copies in the library and eBooks available through our various databases.
For example, simply search one of the following keywords as a Title to garner a general listing of that type of resources
These aren't "end all be all" methods. Get creative and ask your Lindsey Librarian for assistance!
An online encyclopedia to find information on just about anything!
Offers a rich selection of eBook titles covering a broad range of general reference subjects
A comprehensive resource for small business owners and those interested in starting a business, offering full-text periodicals, reports, sample business plans, U.S. tax forms, videos and reference books.
Check out these databases to find eBooks and eBook entries on a variety of topics.