Research Guides: Library Research: Find Background Information

Subject Encyclopedias in Print

These are great places to gather your 5Ws!

The library has subject encyclopedias on a multitude of topics (e.g., The Encyclopedia of Southern Culture).

Subject authorities who write articles in these encyclopedias have included important references at the end of the articles. You may use these references to jumpstart your research.

Ask a librarian for help in locating a relevant encyclopedia. You also can search the library catalog using your topic as one keyword and encyclopedia as your second keyword (e.g., encyclopedia AND music).

Subject Encyclopedia eBooks

Subject encyclopedias from Credo Reference and Oxford Reference can be a great place to begin your research by gathering your 5Ws. They include topic overviews that can help you narrow down your topic and identify keywords and concepts.

Credo Reference
Premier eReference collection including encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, images, audio files and videos on a wide expanse of subjects. Provided by NC LIVE.

Logging in to Library Databases

Off-Campus access to RCC Library databases is restricted to current students, faculty, & staff.

When prompted, use your MyRCC username and password.

If you do not know your password, use the self password reset site.

If you still have issues, please call the Information Technology Services' Help Desk at 336-625-1573 or email cchelpdesk@randolph.edu.