Reference
A reference tool can be defined as an information resource which provides :
- specific and usually brief information (such as a dictionary, a handbook or an encyclopaedia), or
- a guide to more in-depth information (such as an index, or a bibliography)
The Borchardt Library, Melbourne is renowned for its extensive collection of bibliographies, indexes and catalogues of local and international libraries, which have been acquired consistently over the years since the University Library began collecting in 1965. This ensures a high success rate in identifying publications, despite the relatively young age of the La Trobe University.
Access to Reference Material
The Reference Collection is comprised of books and electronic resources. Locations which appear in the Library catalogue for reference material include:
- Bundoora Reference
- Reference LEG (for legislation)
- Reference REP (for law reports/cases)
- Research Help Desk
- Online reference material
- Annexe Reference
Use of Reference Material
Reference tools are not intended to be read from cover to cover, and contain summary information found in other materials. These materials are to be used in the La Trobe University Library only.
Items which are kept at the Inquiry or Research Help Desk can be borrowed for short periods on presentation of identification. These items must not be taken out of the Library.
Superseded editions are often placed in the General Collection, so you may find an older edition available for loan at the same Dewey Decimal Classification number on Level 3 in the General Collection.
Review a list of the Types of Reference Tools held in the Library.