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Stony Brook University

Creative Writing/Literature

Guide to creative fiction and nonfiction at SBU Libraries

Reference Books

Giant reference books once roamed the earth: big, often multi-volumed collections of print bristling with concise and esoteric knowledge. The truth is, they still exist - in print and online. They can also help you find information and details obscure and new-to-you sbject s. 

Here are just some of the reference works you can consult through the library. Can't find what you need? Ask us to suggest a resource for you. 

Oxford Reference Online

Oxford has over 100 dictionaries, guides, and encyclopedias inside. Here are some highlights. Or you can search the whole collection at once

Other Reference Databases

Gale Virtual Reference Library

Another collection of guides, dictionaries, and reference works on a variety of topics.  Search them all or find the title that best fits your story.

Print Reference

Melville Library

The main reference collection is on the 2nd floor of the North Reading Room.

Southampton Library

The reference collection is to the left side of the front desk.