Featured Reference Source (Available Print and Online!)
Also available online through the database Gale Virtual Reference Online! Click here!
The companion set is American Decades: Primary Sources .
The Value of Specialized Reference Sources
*Don't know where to start with your research?
*Have no idea what to write about?
*Want an expert in your discipline to provide you with pertinent information and suggestions?
Start with a specialized encyclopedia or handbook!
Professors may have told you not to use "encyclopedias" in your research. They were probably referring to general encyclopedias (like Britannica), not the specialized, topical encyclopedias that may be highly valuable as you explore your topic.
Specialized encylopedias are written by experts in the field and will provide you with both overviews of and context for your topic while suggesting narrower topics to explore as well. Use the references and bibliographies included therein to find more sources on aspects that interest you.
Save both energy and time by exploring these reference sources!
Experts to help YOU.