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Introduction to the Library-Basic Skills: Background Information

Master these library skills to feel more confident navigating the library and looking for materials

Chapter 4

Jim is getting very interested in Beowulf.  But he finds that he has some questions.  There are words that he doesn't understand.  He also wants to know more about the places and characters mentioned in the book. Where can he find answers to his questions

Where to find factual information

The first place to start is in the Reference area of Reese Library. iReference works such as encyclopedias,dictionaries, and anthologies can provide a lot of information.  Some items which are reference items are also available on the third floor for check out.

There are excellent reference databases in GALILEO. Look under Browse by Type.

Credo ReferenceCredo Reference presents content from hundreds of reference books covering every major subject. 

Oxford English Dictionary is the "accepted authority on the evolution of the English language over the last millennium." The OED gives definitions, etymological analysis, and quotations to demonstrate the use of words in the English language over time.

Funk and Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia is a general encyclopedia containing over 25,000 information segments appropriate for the research needs of school students.

Gale Virtual Reference Libraryis a database of encyclopedias, almanacs, and specialized reference sources for research.