Finding Background Information
Reference sources like dictionaries or encyclopedias are ideal sources to consult when you need to learn about a new topic. The library has a variety of business reference sources to help you understand the history and context of emerging trends.
Subject specific reference works
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Black's Law DictionaryFree, online legal dictionary with over 15,000 legal terms for your business and research use.
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Westlaw This link opens in a new windowLegal research including case law, state and federal statutes, law journals, law reviews, treatises and administrative codes. Additional material includes newspapers, magazines, journals and transcripts of television and radio programs. Coverage varies by source.
Interdisciplinary reference databases
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Sage Knowledge This link opens in a new windowOver 100 online multi-volume reference works, primarily in the social sciences and education. Great starting point for authoritative overviews on thousands of topics.
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Oxford Reference Online This link opens in a new window
Offers fully-indexed, cross-searchable dictionary, language reference, and subject reference works published by Oxford University Press, including Oxford Companions Series. Covers a wide range of fields and includes illustrations, maps, timelines, biographies, and links to authoritative websites.