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Library Resources for the First Year Student: Background Information

Background Information: Encyclopedias

Use encyclopedias to:

Find background information.
Gain ideas to narrow down your topic.
Gather keywords to use in other databases.

Van Nostrand's Scientific Encyclopedia This link opens in a new window
Includes articles on a variety of scientific topics including chemistry, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, and physics.
Coverage: Varies
Full Text: Yes

Background Information: Handbooks

Use handbooks to:

Find information about substances and materials you want to use in your experiments.
Find experimental methods and techniques.
Find information about model organisms for your experiments.

Knovel This link opens in a new window
Collection of critical science and engineering handbooks.(Subscription includes: Biochemistry Biology & Biotechnology; Chemistry & Chemical Engineering; Fire Protection Engineering & Emergency Response; General Engineering & Project Administration; Mechanics & Mechanical Engineering ; ASM International Handbooks Online). Access provided in part by a gift from the Victor E. Kohman, ’43 Memorial Fund.
Coverage: Current
Full Text: Yes
Titles Included
Individual chapters are available to download as PDFs. However, Knovel recommends limiting downloads to 10% or 25 pages of content per title.

More handbooks...