Reference books include encyclopedias, handbooks, manuals, guides, dictionaries, and compilations of resources such as primary documents. Reference books will provide a good overview of your topic, in a short and well organized way, and are good for getting started with any research assignment.
Printed reference materials must be used in the library, but usually you will only need to consult these sources briefly. Online reference materials can be accessed anytime while you are on campus; off campus access will require logging in using your CUNFiIRST Credentials.