We collect reference books so that you can have access to high-quality, factual information. Reference books include dictionaries, encyclopedias, handbooks, and almanacs. Reference books are a good place to go if you need facts, background information on a topic, or statistics.
Reference books do not circulate--that means you cannot check them out--but you are welcome to use them while you're here in the library. The reference section is located behind the reference desk, which is the desk straight ahead of you once you enter the library.
In the reference area, you’ll see many specialized encyclopedias that cover a wide variety of subjects. Here are a few examples:
Blackwell Dictionary of Sociology : a user's guide to sociological language
Handbook of the sociology of gender
American Attitudes : what Americans think about the issues that shape their lives
Encyclopedia of Family Life (available on the 3rd floor, in the STACKS)
Call Number: HQ534.E53 1999
There are many other specialized encyclopedias available online. You can find many of them in IUCAT. Try searching for encyclopedia and sociology or encyclopedia and social problems to find some of them.