Finding Background Information
Reference books (encyclopedias, handbooks, chronologies) are valuable sources of information.
Selected Encyclopedias, Dictionaries, and Handbooks
Cambridge Histories Online Under Databases on library website
Complete text of over 350 scholarly texts in the Cambridge History Series. Each title is also listed individually in the library's online catalog. Dates vary. Some titles are available in print.
History Sources
Dictionary of New York History Ref F 117 D53 2006
Encyclopedia of New York Ref F 118 E57 1996
Encyclopedia of New York City Ref F 128.3 E75 2010
Encyclopedia of New York State Ref F 119 E53 2005 and
NYS F 119 E53 2005 SB
Biography Sources
American National Biography Ref CT 213 A68 1999
Includes entries on major national figures in
American history.
Biography and Genealogy Master Index Under Databases on library website
Gives citations to sources of biographical information for contemporary and historical figures around the world.
Statistics
Historical Statistics of the United States Under Databases on library website
A compendium of statistics from many sources. Topics ranging from migration and health to crime and the Confederate States of America are each placed in historical context by a recognized expert in the field.