Reference collection

Definition of Reference

Reference comprises resources such as atlases, bibliographies, biographies, dictionaries, directories, encyclopaedias and indexes and abstracts. These resources can provide definitions, background information and concise answers to factually based questions on any subject. They are often a good place to start when investigating a new topic or subject. Material in the Reference Collection is for library use only.

Reference sources

Abstracts

An abstract is a brief summary of the content of a book, journal article, theses or other materials.

Almanacs

An almanac, usually published annually, is a handy and dependable compendium of large amounts of current statistical information on almost any topic.

Atlases

An atlas is usually thought of as collections of maps, generally in book form, but also found in multimedia formats. Largely devoted to geography, it also covers history, politics, literature or scientific subjects. Atlases are located on level 3 adjacent to the lift.

Bibliographies

A bibliography is a list of works produced either by one author, in one subject or during one period, usually arranged by author, title, date or subject.

Biographies

A biography is a written account of a person’s life.

Dictionaries

A dictionary is an alphabetical list of words giving definitions or translations. The Oxford English Dictionary is available at http://www.oed.com/. Language dictionaries are shelved on level 3 at the beginning of the Language Section (location 400s).

Directories

A directory is an alphabetical list of names and addresses for people and organisations, grouped or published by subject, and may also provide more detailed information.

Encyclopaedias

An encyclopaedia is a reference work containing explanatory articles on a comprehensive range of topics or in a specific area of interest.

Handbooks

A handbook, also called manual, is a collection of instructions covering a particular subject and are collections of useful information - including statistics, definitions, or mathematical formulas.

Indexes

An index is a detailed alphabetical guide, usually, to the content of a book or series of books. Also, an alphabetical subject guide to articles in a collection of periodicals and/or other materials.

Locating Reference

Most of our Reference resources are available electronically via the library database page. Print Reference resources can be found on the catalogue by searching the title or keywords of the reference work required. The print collection is shelved at the beginning of each subject area. The prefix REF will appear before the location.