MODULE 3
Information Navigator
Using Reference Tools
Using Internet Search Engines
Using Article Databases
Using Library Catalogs
Creating Search Statements
Boolean Logic
Note Taking Tips
Documenting Sources
APA Style
MLA Style
Creating Annotations
Information Ethics
Assignment: Research Project
Quiz 3
On to Module 4


Tools:

Sample Module 3 Assignments

Information Evaluator
Glossary
USING REFERENCE TOOLS

Using Reference Tools to Find Background Information

Why use reference tools for research?

Library reference collections are a great place to start when you are beginning research, or to find data that supports your argument. Reference tools provide:

  • background information
  • an overview of a topic
  • facts and details
  • paths to other sources of information
  • quick answers to questions
  • statistics
Reference tools are sometimes NOT useful if the research topic is very new or narrow in focus. Use articles to find information on a very current topic.

What Are Reference Tools?

Reference tools can be printed books or online databases, known collectively as "reference tools." Reference tools are generally items you "refer" to quickly for background information, statistics, definitions or facts. The most common types of reference tools are:

 

Source: What kind of information? Online reference tool examples: Printed reference tool examples:
Almanacs Annual collection of facts and figures Infoplease.com   almanac World Almanac
Atlas Collection of maps PCL Map Collection Times Atlas of the World
Bibliographies List of books and articles NLM Resource Lists and Bibliographies Geologic Hazards Bibliography of Utah
Biographical Dictionary Birth and death dates Biography.com Websters Biographical Dictionary
Dictionaries Definitions American Heritage Dictionary American Heritage Dictionary
Directory Lists, addresses QwestDex Your local phone book
Encyclopedias Short background articles Pioneer Encyclopedias Encyclopedia Americana
Handbooks Things an expert should know Occupational Outlook Handbook CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics
Manuals How to do something Internal Revenue Manual Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
Statistical Sources Back up your research with numbers Statistical Abstract of the United States Statistical abstract of Utah.

How To Access Reference Tools

  • Ask a reference librarian
  • Browse the library reference collection shelves
  • Type a keyword into the library catalog or search engine AND the kind of reference tool you want to use (Example: medical AND dictionaries)

Finding Printed Reference Books

Every academic library will have a collection of reference books near the reference service desk. Look for a sign that tells you where to find the reference desk or reference collection. Reference books usually cannot be checked out because they need to be available for anyone needing them and they are often used for a very short period of time.

Finding Online Reference Databases

Academic library Web sites will usually also provide access to reference tools or resources from the library's Web site. Many reference books, like Encyclopedia Britannica, are now available on the Internet. Some reference databases, like Contemporary Authors, will be restricted to library users with identification or library cards at a particular library.

Tip: Reference books cover general topics.

  • If you search for music AND encyclopedias you might find a useful reference book such as The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians.
  • If you searched for accordions AND encyclopedias, you would come up with nothing because no one has written an entire encyclopedia about accordions.

How To Use Reference Tools

Each reference tool will be different. If you are using a reference book, carefully follow instructions in the front of the book. Try looking up your topic in the index of the book or within the book in alphabetical order.

If you are using an online reference tool, carefully follow the instructions on the screen. Use Help screens as needed. Try typing a keyword in the search box.

Some reference tools are quite complicated and complex. If you are not finding what you need, or if  you don't understand how the tool works, ask for help immediately at the reference desk. If you are off campus, give them a call.

Exercises:

  1. Use one of the Pioneer Encyclopedias (preferably Funk and Wagnall's) to find some background information on your topic. Remember, you may need to use a broader term than your topic. If you can't find anything appropriate for your research in one of the Pioneer Encyclopedias ask a reference librarian or your instructor to recommend another reference tool that will be useful.
  2. Below is a list of academic libraries in Utah. You can click here to get to any of their home pages. Review any links to reference tools at your library, or the academic library closest to you.

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