The reference collection includes a current edition of major directories in selected subject fields. Reference has several major foreign language encyclopedias. In addition to the general encyclopedias, reference collects authoritative encyclopedias in specialized subject areas. The reference collection provides a limited collection of selected atlases. Most geographical sources are housed in the Map Room.
Reference attempts to collect current and authoritative handbooks in all major subject fields.
Indexes and Abstracts. Reference provides as many indexing and abstracting services as possible in all fields of knowledge. The Reference Department attempts to include all major style manuals. Reference has a comprehensive paper copy collection of Minnesota telephone directories, as well as directories on microfiche for major cities of the United States. Reference has paper copies of catalogs of colleges in Minnesota and surrounding states.