Reference Collection
The reference collection includes general information sources as well as a variety of subject specific resources. The types of resources available include atlases, dictionaries, directories, encyclopedias, and handbooks. The reference collection is shelved near the Reference Desk on the third floor, and their use is limited to within the library. Reference books are listed in the HELIN catalog.
Indexes
The reference collection includes both general indexes and indexes covering particular disciplines. Indexes provide subject access to articles in journals, chapters in books, and papers from conferences.
Indexes are available both in print format and electronically. Printed indexes are shelved in the INDEX area near the Reference Desk on the third floor. Electronic indexes are available both on CD-ROM and online.
Dictionaries
Dictionaries and thesauruses are located on stands on the first, second, and third floors. Current dictionaries are available in the reference stacks (3rd floor) around the call number PE 1625. They are available for use only within the library, and they cannot be checked out.
Maps
The library maintains a small collection of assorted general interest travel maps. They are filed near the Reference Desk on the third floor. These maps are not listed in the HELIN catalog and cannot be checked out. Please note that the library also maintains a collection of maps and atlases that are cataloged and can be found in the HELIN catalog.
There are also numerous sites that provide useful geographic information
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CIA World Fact Book
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Cornell's Geoscience Information System
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Department of State - Background Notes
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National Geographic Map Machine
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Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection (University of Texas at Austin)
Newsletters
The library receives newsletters from various organizations in Rhode Island. They are filed near the Reference Desk on the third floor. These newsletters are not listed in the HELIN catalog and cannot be checked out.
Telephone Books
Rhode Island telephone books are shelved near the Reference Desk on the third floor. The library no longer receives telephone books from outside the state. However, many directories are available free and online. There are online directories that provide information for across the United States and beyond.