Background information, found in library reference materials, can be helpful in a number of ways:
- You can learn more about a topic quickly. Entries and articles in encyclopedias and dictionaries are typically short.
- You can refine your research topic. If your topic is too broad, these sources can often help you narrow your focus. Longer entries may use subheadings, which could be viable topics. On the other hand, if your topic is too specific, these sources can help you broaden your topic. Many entries will reference other entries, which may be broader in their scope.
- Often the articles and entries will reference sources. These can serve as a springboard for your own research.
Below are a few databases that contain reference materials.
