How do I find reference sources?  

This guide provides tips for finding general reference sources at the Library.  Additional reference sources can be found using the Library's Research Guides by Subject.

What are reference sources?

Reference sources are authoritative works that you can use to locate specific types of information. There are many types of reference sources, including dictionaries, encyclopedias, thesauri, directories, and almanacs.  But in broader terms, it can also include bibliographies, handbooks, atlases, gazetteers, style manuals, or statistical sources.

Where are they located?

The Library has reference materials online and in print. Print reference collections are available near the reference desk at each campus library.  In Regenstein, additional subject-specific reference collections are located on the upper floors.

Can I check them out?

Most reference books cannot be checked out of the Library, unless they are in the bookstacks.

The databases below allow access to the widest variety of reference books online.  You may also cross-search multiple sources at once.

These databases allow you identify reference sources or search print reference materials.