ALL ABOUT: Reference Sources

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“Reference” or “tertiary” sources is a broad category that includes dictionaries, directories, handbooks, manuals, guides, companions, encyclopedias, and bibliographies. In general, a reference source differs from other kinds of academic sources. A reference source's primary intention is to summarize and enumerate, rather than to argue.

How to use a reference source

Take time to figure out how it's structured

Reference books often have complex and unfamiliar structures. You may find multiple indexes and the layout of information may vary considerably from section to section. Remember: these sources are for quick look-up type information. You use them to locate a fact or desired piece of information, or point to another source. Understanding the index, or the built-in structure of the information, is critical to your ability to locate that information quickly.

  • Start with the table of contents: what are the main components?
  • Read the frontmatter (for online reference sources, this may be hidden under an “about” page):
    • What’s in here? What years, topics, or formats are covered?
    • What’s the source material? How was this made?
    • What’s the structure of an entry?
    • Where’s the key to abbreviations and reference numbers?
  • Explore index(es): what are your options for navigating?

Take control and read selectively

  • Feel free to take only what you need
  • Formulate clear questions that you want the source to answer
  • If you’re just browsing and exploring, set a timer so you don’t get lost!

Acknowledge appropriately

Many specialized reference sources represent expert knowledge available nowhere else. It’s tempting to consider anything in an encyclopedia as “common knowledge.” This is not usually true of the highly specialized encyclopedias found in academic libraries. Cite reference work entries as you would any other article.

  • Consider how much expertise went into what you’re reading
  • Be aware of whose work you’re reading:
    • Are entries signed?
    • Are the editors or team members identified?

How to find a reference source

Note: Take extra care to evaluate online reference sources for quality and trustworthiness. Reference sources often cater to niche fields of study and rely on extensive cross-referencing: this makes it expensive to put them online.

Ask a librarian

  • Do this first, as reference sources can be hard to find on your own!
  • Explain what you’re trying to learn and what you already know

Add these terms to your catalog search

  • Library of Congress Subject Terms