Module 1: Defining the Information Need

Books

Books fall into several different categories:

• Reference books, such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks contain word definitions, overviews, or introductory information on many topics.
• Some books cover a single topic in great detail.
• Fiction books contain stories created from the author's imagination.

Books come in two formats:

• Print books
• Electronic books, usually called e-books, may be viewed through a web browser or may be downloaded to a computer, mobile device, or e-book reader. The LSSC libraries provide many e-books, including reference books.

Strengths:

• Cover material in depth
• Best source for established information and facts
• Good source for background information

Weaknesses:

• Books take a long time to get published, so they are not good sources for current events information.

How can I find books?

• To find out whether or not the LSSC libraries own a print or electronic book, check the library catalog.