* What? Reference materials (encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, atlases, etc.) are great sources to start your research—or to supplement it at any stage.
* Why? They provide background information and topical overviews. Your professor may allow you to cite a subject-specific reference source.
* Where? In the Library - Reference room, 2nd Floor, DLRC. Online - In library research databases. The following are a few that contain articles from subject-specific encyclopedias and other reference items:
Your search terms—key words or phrases—and how you combine them, are the first step in searching for the results you want.
Individual databases may provide a smaller "universe" than the all-in-one library catalog search that brings up items in the library along with electronic materials. Search your topic in these databases for online sources such as articles, streaming videos, and more.