Reference databases are general in nature and provide facts about a wide array of subjects. They are useful for locating introductory or background information needed to start your research. Reference databases include sources such as biographical information, dictionaries, directories, encyclopedias, handbooks, almanacs, manuals, and yearbooks.
The historical English dictionary: an unsurpassed guide for researchers in any discipline to the meaning, history, and usage of over 500,000 words and phrases across the English-speaking world. The OED is widely regarded as the accepted authority on the English language. (Oxford)
This link opens in a new windowA comprehensive reference resource that includes images, audio files, videos, and more than 600 full-text reference books on most major subject areas. (Infobase)
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