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Encyclopedia
Encyclopedias are collections of short, factual entries often written by different contributors who are knowledgeable about the topic. There are two types of encyclopedias -- general and subject. General encyclopedias provide concise overviews on a wide variety of topics. Subject encyclopedias contain in-depth entries focusing on one field of study. The best place to find an encyclopedia is in a library. However, a few encyclopedias can be found on the Web, usually accessible only to subscribers.
 
Use an Encyclopedia
  • when looking for background information on a topic
  • when trying to find key ideas, important dates or concepts

Find encyclopedia articles by using the index.

Examples

  • African-American Encyclopedia (subject encyclopedia)
  • Encyclopedia Americana (general encyclopedia)
  • Britannica Online (general encyclopedia)

Finding an Encyclopedia Article:
Always use the index volume.  This will alphabetically list the subjects covered in the encyclopedia set and with provide a vast list of cross references to related topics.  The alphabetical list of topics or subjects will also include page numbers and columns and sometimes the quarter of the page where the text relating to the subject can be found.
 

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