If they're not available from MU Library, we can get you the books or articles you need from another library! Visit the Interlibrary Loan information page to get started!.
Beginning your research with reference resources helps you discover background information like terminology, central figures and dates and an overview of existing literature on your topic. Look for:
Use these databases to locate background information on your topic, including definitions, important events/dates, overview, key concepts and biographical information.
Use these specialized encyclopedias and reference texts to get an overview of the subject, or to familiarize yourself with terminology and key concepts.
Gale Contextual Encyclopedia of American Literature by 
A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by 
