What is a reference resource?
"Reference" is a term that derives from the Latin referre "to carry back." A reference resource is something that we refer back to for information. Common examples are dictionaries, encyclopedias, and thesauri. These are tools that people want on hand to find quick information, to check a fact, or to gain a background knowledge of a topic.
In the past, reference resources were usually books. These days, they're just as often online. This guide lists some useful online resources, but we have many more great resources in print - the librarians at Albertsons Library will be happy to help you find resources on your topic, just ask!
WorldCat
Encyclopedias
You've probably used the Encyclopedia Britanica or another general encyclopedia before and you've certainly used a dictionary, but have you heard of the Encyclopedia of Food and Culture or the Dictionary of the Internet? We have access to dozens of subject encyclopedias and dictionaries through the sources listed below. Encyclopedias are a great way to get background information on your topic or to find topic ideas.
- Answers.comOne search box for multiple encyclopedias, dictionaries, thesauri, and other information resources.
- Blackwell ReferenceEncyclopedias for a broad range of subject areas
- Funk & Wagnalls EncyclopediaA searchable encyclopedia, plus several almanacs.
- Gale Virtual ReferenceThis is a huge set of subject encyclopedias, and a great place to start your research.
- How Stuff WorksIllustrated articles that explain how things work.
- Oxford ReferenceSubject encyclopedias, handbooks, and dictionaries for a wide range of subject areas.
- ScienceDirect Reference WorksEncyclopedic works in science, technology and social science areas.
Word tools: Dictionaries, Thesauri, and Quotations
- Bartlett's Familiar QuotationsContains over 11,000 quotations.
- Cambridge Dictionaries OnlineDesigned for learners of English.
- Merriam-Webster Online DictionaryThis dictionary and thesaurus provides sound files for pronunciation.
- Oxford English DictionaryThis is the gold standard dictionary (13 volumes in print!). Includes both the present-day meanings of words and historical information.
- Oxford ReferenceSubject dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks for a wide range of subject areas.
- Paradigm Online Writing AssistantWritten by BSU English professor Chuck Guilford, this online writers guide and handbook has all kinds of useful information about punctuation, pronunciation, and more.
- Roget's II: The New ThesaurusSynonyms and antonyms to over 35,000 English words.
- Thesaurus.comAn easy to use thesaurus.
Library Resources
- Call numbersAlbertsons Library, like most academic libraries, uses the Library of Congress classification system. This website outlines call number areas by subject.
- Library floor mapsThese printable floor maps and location guides are very helpful when navigating a large library.
- Information Literacy TutorialThis tutorial provides a background on finding and using information. Requires Flash Player (click "Help" to download). The University of Idaho Library and Center for Teaching Innovation collaborated to create this tool.
Directories
- Global DirectoriesSearchable country directories for many areas of the world.
- State of Idaho DirectoryState employee email and phone search in addition to agency listings, judicial districts, Idaho counties, Idaho cities, public school districts, legislative districts, commissions and boards, and employee phone listings.
- U.S. Government Telephone and E-mail directories"Contact directories for government agencies and officials."
- WhoWhereSearches for people or businesses and provides contact information.
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