How to Find Reference Books: Home

Andersen Library Reference Desk
Phone: (262) 472-1032
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Reference books can be a valuable source of background information on many research topics. The Library has thousands of specialized encyclopedias, dictionaries, almanacs, handbooks, and many other types of reference works. These books often include bibliographies of additional research resources on topics of interest, so they can be a good starting point for your research. And of course, the Library has all the general reference sources like Encyclopedia Britannica (print and online).

If you are ready to jump right in, here are the main places to start:

• Research@UWW - Find "Everything" (articles, books, & more)
  This discovery tool searches multiple resources simultaneously (articles, books, ebooks, videos, digital resources, government documents, etc.), or you can change from searching "Everything" to all our resources that are not articles by choosing i.e., Books, Media & more (UW Whitewater).
• A-Z Databases List
  Online research databases available through the Library. Search these resources to find articles and other information on your topic, primarily in journals, magazines, and newspapers. Databases are available via the alphabetical listing, or sorted by broad subject area using the drop-down menus at the top.
• Google Scholar
  Google Scholar can help you find both books and articles, but if you use Google Scholar from off campus, configure the settings to use Andersen Library's full text subscription access.
• Journals
  Use this search to find out whether the Library owns a particular journal, magazine, or newspaper, as well as the dates and formats available. Search by periodical title, as opposed to article title.