Books

Books can provide both background and comprehensive information on your research topic. They help to provide context in relation to other relevant issues, as well as summarising research in a particular area or providing an historical overview.

The information found in books can also be supplemented by journal articles to provide a more up-to-date or focused perspective.

Many books are now available online - check the Library catalogue for more details.

Reference books

Reference books, such as dictionaries, handbooks, encyclopedias, yearbooks, etc provide a starting point for your research. These sources can help to define concepts and terms and provide an overview and background information.