College libraries usually have numerous subject specific encyclopedias that contain chapters, typically alphabetically arranged, on subjects within the discipline the encyclopedia covers. Dictionaries Dictionaries are both general and specialized by subject area. There are also translating dictionaries for languages. General dictionaries are helpful in researching etymology of words which may help in approaching a topic as well as defining a word for clarity in writing. Specialized subject dictionaries are useful in defining terms with specialized meaning within a discipline or area of research.
Some dictionaries are biographical or include biographical entries.
Both may include annotations or reviews of the sources. These compilations are most useful when older or historical information is still relevant to the subject since the sources cited typically are reviewed at least a year prior to publication of the bibliography. Biographical information can be found in subject dictionaries or encyclopedias as well as in strictly biographical sources such as the following. Directories Directories provide information on locating people, businesses, organizations and agencies. Statistical Sources Statistical sources are often compilations of statistical information published elsewhere.