REFERENCE LIBRARY Meaning and
Definition
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A reference library is a collection of books, documents, and other resources that are gathered and organized for the purpose of providing quick and easy access to information. It is designed to serve as a valuable tool for researchers, students, and anyone seeking detailed, reliable, and comprehensive information on a wide range of topics.
In a reference library, the materials are typically non-circulating, meaning they cannot be taken out of the library. Instead, users can refer to these resources within the library itself. The collection may include reference books such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases, almanacs, and directories, along with a variety of magazines, journals, newspapers, and other periodicals. Additionally, reference libraries often provide access to digital resources, including online databases and other electronic media.
The primary goal of a reference library is to offer authoritative, up-to-date, and accurate information in a broad spectrum of subjects, making it a dependable source for research and fact-checking. It serves as a repository of knowledge, catering to the needs of diverse users. Reference librarians, knowledgeable professionals trained in information retrieval, play a crucial role in assisting users in locating the appropriate resources and answering queries.
Reference libraries are often found in academic institutions, public libraries, or specialized research institutions, and their collections are carefully curated to include materials that support a wide range of disciplines and academic pursuits. They offer a wealth of resources, both traditional and digital, essential for conducting in-depth research, seeking answers, and exploring the intricacies of various subjects.
Common Misspellings for REFERENCE LIBRARY
- eeference library
- deference library
- feference library
- teference library
- 5eference library
- 4eference library
- rwference library
- rsference library
- rdference library
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- regerence library
- reterence library
- rererence library
- refwrence library
- refsrence library
Etymology of REFERENCE LIBRARY
The word "reference" originates from the Latin word "referre", which means "to carry back" or "to appoint, assign". It later evolved in diverse meanings, including "to consult", "to mention", or "to use as a source".
The term "library" has roots in the Latin word "liber", which meant "book". In ancient Rome, libraries were originally called "bibliotheca", derived from the Greek words "biblio" (book) and "theke" (chest or case). Over time, "library" became a common term to refer to a collection of books.
Therefore, the phrase "reference library" essentially means a library specifically designed for consultation, where individuals can find resources and information for research, study, or informational purposes.
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