When you have a new project, finding background information on your topic is a great way to learn more about the topic, including major concepts, terms, people, and historical events and decide what specific concepts to discuss in your assignment. Background information can also help you identify keywords for future resources and writing.
Reference works are a great source of background information, as they provide basic, concise information on a topic. Examples of reference works include:
A reference work is also known as a tertiary source (as opposed to primary and secondary sources). Tertiary sources compile, summarize, digest, and organize the information in primary and secondary sources to provide background information on a topic. Tertiary sources are typically used to:
Reference works/tertiary sources are not used as cited evidence in papers written for university level courses, unless there is a compelling reason to do so, such as when conflicting information must be acknowledged.
More information about primary, secondary, and tertiary sources can be found on the Evaluating Sources guide.
Some reference databases cover general knowledge while others cover specialized disciplines. Free reference databases online include:
The Harrisburg University Library also provides you with access to more scholarly and topic specific reference resources, linked below.
General Purpose Reference Works
Health Care Related Reference Works
Business Related Reference Works