Encyclopedias and Handbooks (Electronic Reference Sources)
Librarian
What's included
The Rutgers University Libraries have an extensive collection of online encyclopedias and handbooks from which to choose, too many to provide an exhaustive list in this guide. Included here are collections and general and multidisciplinary resources with links to some freely accessible sites.
Tips for finding online encyclopedias and handbooks, reference entries, print encyclopedias and handbooks, and other online and print resources are also provided.
Please visit the following pages for related resources.
- Biography (Electronic Reference Sources)Links to a wide variety of general and specialized biographical resources.
- Dictionaries (Electronic Reference Sources)Links to a wide assortment of dictionaries and dictionary resources in all disciplines and languages.
- Electronic BooksIncludes links to both free and restricted access collections of electronic books.
- Research GuidesSubject guides with pointers and detailed information on researching your topic. Some guides include a list of related encyclopedias and handbooks.
Definitions
encyclopedia
"An elaborate and exhaustive repertory of information on all the branches of some particular art or department of knowledge; esp. one arranged in alphabetical order."
handbook
"Originally: a book small enough to be easily portable and intended to be kept close to hand, typically one containing a collection of passages important for reference or a compendium of information on a particular subject, esp. a book of religious instruction (now historical). Later also more generally: any book (usually but not necessarily concise) giving information such as facts on a particular subject, guidance in some art or occupation, instructions for operating a machine, or information for tourists."
[Oxford English Dictionary]