Many subject encyclopedias are now available online as e-books, but paper still works! Use whatever best suits your topic, regardless of medium. Below are the large collections of e-reference materials we have that cover history:
Search or browse resources on the American government, current affairs, history, politics, public policy, and data analysis for the social sciences. Database Guide.
Background information, often found in subject encyclopedias, can provide valuable information that can save you time. Subject encyclopedias are encyclopedias dedicated to one theme or subject, and thus the information provided can be more in depth than that found in general encyclopedias, which must cover all subjects. Subject encyclopedias can provide:
You can use any library catalog (CMU Catalog, Worldcat, Pittcat) to find subject encyclopedias. Just search encyclopedias as a subject term and combine that with a relevant keyword. For Example:
No, not every topic may have a relevant subject encyclopedia, but many do and can save you time and effort. You can also search the subject encyclopedia collections listed under "Subject Encyclopedias" box on this page. Of course reference librarians can help you find relevant subject encyclopedias, too - just Ask a Librarian!
