IDS 101: Plato: Reference Materials

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.

Below are 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.

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:

• Show you the best places to begin your research.
   
• Locate the information you need within our library or elsewhere.
   
• Help you cite information correctly (e.g. APA style).
   
• Judge the quality & reliability of information.
   
• Teach you how to use information ethically (e.g. avoiding plagiarism).
   
• Determine whether something is peer-reviewed.

Library Hours

Mon-Thur    7:45 a.m. -- 2 a.m.
Friday         7:45 a.m. -- 9 p.m.
Saturday    11 a.m -- 6 p.m.
Sunday      10 a.m. -- 2 a.m.

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
Sat-Sun         (Closed)

Contact library@willamette.edu for a research consultation.
 

Archives Hours

Contact archives@willamette.edu for an appointment.

Appointments available:

Mon - Fri  9 a.m. -- 12 p.m. / 1 p.m. -- 4 p.m.

Note: The library is closed to the general public at 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and holidays. The library remains open to students, faculty, and staff with current Willamette ID.

More calendar info...