Why Dictionaries?
You want to sure you are using the correct word to express your ideas. If you are not sure, you should check the definition in a dictionary.
- Oxford English Dictionary This link opens in a new window
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Includes the complete text of the Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd ed. plus quarterly updates of new and revised entries. Trace the origin and history of words and their meanings in this etymological dictionary.
- Merriam Webster OnlineA commercial site that has both a dictionary and thesaurus.
Why Encyclopedias?
Encyclopedias are a good place to start if you need an overview of a topic you are unfamiliar with. They will often include a bibliography of sources that you can consult for more information. The links below lead you to a selection of encyclopedia titles/collections that might be relevant to your assignments. Some of the links are to groups of titles from a single publisher--you can select those that seem appropriate to your topic. Others are print sources that you can look at in the Powell Main Reading Room.
- Gale E-Books (formerly Gale Virtual Reference Library) This link opens in a new window
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GVRL provides online access to encyclopedias, dictionaries and specialized reference sources, primarily in the social sciences and humanities. On the Advanced Search screen, search for cemeteries in Document Title to get articles about cemeteries in general.