Reference sources summarize information so that you can check for basic facts, find background information, and consider overarching themes. Importantly, they can also give you a starting point from which you can find other primary and secondary resources!
This type of source includes encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, bibliographies, timelines (and more!)
Below are a few reference sources to start with. Need to find others?
To search through more reference resources digitally, take a look at Credo Reference!
Full text resource for a diverse range of subjects. Types of sources include general and subject dictionaries and encyclopedias.