Gives synonyms or alternative words with the same meaning. Especially useful when writing papers. There are also many specialized dictionaries, from broad subjects like science or mathematics to narrow topics like anatomy or Renaissance music. The library also has several dictionaries used to translate words from one language to another. Gives a definition, description, background, and usually a short bibliography of important books for each subject.
Information tends to be a few years old.
Use the index volumes to guide you in finding all the information on your topic. Includes both short and long articles on a wide range of subjects. Has bibliographies, illustrations, maps and a separate index volume. Good for particularly American subjects, like the Declaration of Independence or events in U.S. history. New Encyclopaedia Britannica.