The Untapped Books of the Lake Forest Library

There is an entire section of books at the library that you have probably never explored or maybe even noticed. Lining the walls of our computer and study area is the Reference Collection. You would be correct in assuming that these books are special and can't be checked out.

These are the books that will lead you on great paths of discovery, much like Wikipedia often seems to do. Reference books provide great information for the basics on pretty much every subject. Want to learn about astronomy, mineralogy, myths, physics, psychiatry, or pretty much anything else? Chances are we have an encyclopedia and dictionary devoted to each field. Here is a small sampling of some favorites:

The Oxford English Dictionary (or OED for those in the know) is the largest English language dictionary. Aside from definitive definitions, the OED also presents the earliest uses of every English word. Want to know the first appearance of the word shambling? On page 618 of volume IX you will see it was first used in 1681 by Dryden in The Spanish Friar: "By that shambling in his walk, it should be my rich old banker Gomez." (Call number: REF 423 OXF)



Genreflecting is a useful book that breaks down fiction books to their genre. Want to read about Forensic Scientists? Try something by Kathy Reichs (of the Bones TV show). How about Sci-Fi Mysteries? Then Isaac Asimov's Elijah Baley & R.Daneel Olivaw series about a human and robot detective would be perfect. Search for whatever genre you want to read and discover some great new titles! (REF 028 HER)

If you are really interested in demographics and statistics of geography, try Places, Towns, and Townships. These three volumes provide detailed demographics about the populations, industry, crime, and government of most U.S. towns. (REF 317.3 PLA)







American Family Names is an excellent resource for genealogists interested in the origins of their last name. For example, those with the last name Harvell may be interested to know its origins are in the old English combination of heorot (stag) and feld (open country).
(REF 929.4 DIC)

Bartlett's Familiar Quotations is an essential for those who enjoy a good line or two. Take a librarian's favorite, Jorge Luis Borges, "Writing is nothing more than a guided dream." (REF 808.882 BAR)









The Encyclopedia of Religion is a staggering sixteen volume work about documented religions. It covers everything from funeral rites to deities to the role of deserts in religious writing.
(REF 291 ENC)

Have a favorite reference book? Let us know in the comments!