Need Help?
For individual research help, schedule an appointment to meet with a librarian.
How to Use Reference Books
An encyclopedia is a type of reference book. These are great resources for gathering background information on your topic, as well as for:
- Defining important vocabulary words related to your topic,
- Finding a basic overview and main issues related to your topic, and
- Finding references to additional resources.
Online Encyclopedias and Background Information
Below are a few places you can find definitions and encyclopedia articles; from off campus you will have to login with your myNOVA username and password.
- AtoZ: World Culture This link opens in a new windowA wealth of reference information about the nations of the world. Includes information about demographics, climate, culture and travel. (NVCC)
- Britannica Academic This link opens in a new windowFully-searchable collection of authoritative encyclopedia articles. (NVCC)
- Credo Reference This link opens in a new windowA collection of over 500 reference books on a variety of topics. (NVCC)
- Issues & Controversies This link opens in a new windowDetailed reports on controversial issues in the news. (VCCS)
Encyclopedia Search Tips
Since encyclopedia articles focus on basic, general information about a topic, what you type in the search box should also be general:
YES: Haitian culture
YES: Haiti AND voodoo
NO: How is Haitian culture affected by one of its main religions, voodoo?