How do I determine what reference tool to use?

• Start by focusing on what subject your inquiry falls under:
• Would a short sentence suffice? Try the Dictionaries section.
• Or would a detailed explanation be needed, including diagrams and illustrations, to understand? Try the Encyclopedias section.
• Are you searching for a business or person and their contact information? Try the Directories, Business & Residential section.
• Would a map pinpoint the answer? Try the Atlases & Maps section.
• Would finding a specific scientific measurement on any date help? Try the Almanacs section.
• Does the subject pertain to the government? Try the Government Information section.
• Is the subject a current event? Try the Magazines and Newspapers sections.
• Can the subject be found in a listing of specialized information? Try either the Bibliographies & Catalogs or the Directories, Web sections.
• Still not finding the appropriate resource? Try typing your inquiry in the Google search box on the left side under 'Additional Resources', or try live! chat to speak with a librarian during business hours of respective institutions.