Research (General): Where do I start?: Reference Books

Reference books (like encyclopedias and dictionaries) are a great first source to use when you're starting to research a new topic.

Written by experts, entries in scholarly encyclopedias give you crucial background information on your topic including:

• Definitions
• Statistics & demographics
• History of the topic
• Important researchers and scholars
• Positives & negatives of controversial topics
• References to other sources you can use to expand your research

You'll also identify other keywords you can us in further searches.

The SCC Library has 100s of reference books, in both print and ebook form. Remember to ask a librarian if you need help. They can help you find the perfect encyclopedia for your research.