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ENGL 243: Inter Crtv Nonfiction Workshop (Philip)

What is a Reference Source?

What is a Reference Resource?

A Reference Source is usually a physical or digital document that you would refer to for more information about a topic. Examples include dictionaries (refer to for definitions of words) and encyclopedias (refer to for broad summaries about a topic). These documents are referred to, rather than read cover-to-cover. 

When doing academic research, it is sometimes much better to consult a reference resource than to type your question into google. Reference resources are usually curated around specific topics, making them more credible and informative than the advertisement suggestion that will pop up at the top of your google search!

Recommended Reference Sources for English

Digital Reference Resources

These are accessible online to search in at any time!

Physical Reference Resources

These resources are available in the Dinand library reading room or the Science Library as physical resources. You may use them for up to three hours within the library walls. If you'd like to use them please feel free to take them from the shelves! Please just be sure to put them on a cart or return them to the library front desk for proper re-shelving when you are done.