What are Reference Books?

Reference books, such as an encyclopedia, atlas, dictionary, handbook, etc., contain authoritative, relatively brief information or facts for consultation. They are not intended to be read cover to cover.

The library has print reference books, eReference books and reference databases.

Reference ebooks include online full text handbooks, specialized encyclopedias, subject dictionaries, atlases, and other sources. They provide objective background information, quick facts, statistics, biographies, and more.

How to Find Reference Books & Ebooks

To find a reference title:

  • Go to the ORU opens new window Library catalog. Key in the title and choose Reference Collection in the View Entire Collection drop menu. Scroll the list and click on an ebook. A link to the full text ebook is provided on the record page.
  • Search or browse a reference database.

Selected Reference Ebook Databases

Sample Reference Ebooks