Author Description

This classified annotated bibliography updates the standard sources needed by most small and medium-sized libraries for answering reference questions and improving collections. The brief, succinct annotations provide complete ordering information, which may make this a valuable tool for busy librarians. Designed to serve a variety of purposes "Reference sources" may be useful as a collection evaluation checklist and selection tool, a supplement to texts for basic reference sources in library schools, and as an aid to basic reference research questions. The scope of the book covers all Dewey Decimal Classification fields and includes traditional reference materials for children and young adults. New to the work are sources in such formats as microforms and databases, online, and CD-ROM. Materials selected comply with the conventional definition of a reference source. Pamphlets, local reference works, specialized and foreign publications and items priced beyond what most small libraries could afford were generally excluded. Public, small college and large secondary school libraries should find "Reference sources" a comprehensive, but handy selection aid for informational reference sources.