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IDS 101: Africa in the Global Era: Reference

Reference Books

On this page you will find a list of key reference books that provide a general overview of a topic or help identify synonyms, related terms, or basic data. These sources often include references and lists of further readings and are a great resource to turn to when you need background information or are brainstorming ideas for further research.

Authoritative Reference Sources vs Wikipedia

Wikipedia is a great resource for getting general info about something, but because anyone can contribute or change its content it is considered unreliable.  College faculty typically do not consider Wikipedia a credible information source. 

Instead, use the library's print or electronic encyclopedias, dictionaries, or other reference books to backup the basic information of your research paper. These resources have gone through an editorial process to check for accuracy. To the right and below are some resources that may be of use.

Online Encyclopedias and More

Dictionary of Literary Biography

Cover Art

Dictionary of Literary Biography

 

Shelved near librarians' offices.

Specialized Dictionary

Print Reference Books

Below is a selection of resources available in the Reference section of the library; these are African-related titles or titles that contain sections on Africa or African countries.  These resources do not checkout and must be used in the library.

Liaison Librarian

What librarians can do for you...

Subject librarians are here to help with your research!

You can set up an individual research consultation with a subject librarian for research help. Here are a few other things that we can do for you:

Hours during the Academic Year

Library Hours


Mon-Thur    8 a.m. -- Midnight
Friday         8 a.m. -- 9 p.m.
Saturday    10 a.m. -- 6 p.m.
Sunday      10 a.m. -- Midnight

Reference Hours


Mon-Wed   10 a.m. -- 5 p.m.
                    6 p.m. -- 9 p.m.
Thursday    10 a.m. -- 5 p.m.     

Friday          1 p.m. -- 4 p.m
Saturday         (Closed)
Sunday           (Closed)

Archives Hours


Contact:  archives@willamette.edu for an appointment.

Note: The library is open to the general public Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More calendar info...

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