6b21becc_sity_Libraries___Virginia_Tech__Use
[Type] Encyclopedia [Information] Encyclopedias are collections of short, factual entries often written by different contributors who are knowledgeable about the topic. There are two types of encyclopedias: general and subject. General encyclopedias provide concise overviews on a wide variety of topics. Subject encyclopedias contain in-depth entries focusing on one field of study. [Examples] African-American Encyclopedia (subject encyclopedia) Encyclopedia Americana (general encyclopedia) World Book (general encyclopedia found online) Gale encyclopedia of genetic disorders (subject encyclopedia found online) [Use] 
when looking for background information on a topic when trying to find key ideas, important dates or concepts
Types of information sources | University Libraries | Virginia Tech
Use