They clarify a topic and suggest a research direction. 328.73003 C749 Concise reference on the structure, operation, and status of Congress. Reflects present political events. Good for providing an overview of broad subjects.
Substantial bibliographies guide researcher to more sources.
Scan the table of contents in v.1 or use the index in v.3 for specific access. Good for explaining aspects of democratic governments. Entries cover concepts and themes as well as historical events, political parties, and issues. 320.403 E46P Explanations of terms relating to Congress, the President, the citizenry, and their interconnected roles. Entries give definitions and a significance paragraph explaining the historical and current relevance of the term.