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Research Guides

CMS 310 Library Session: Background Sources

Finding Primary Sources for Film

Why Use Background Sources

   encyclopedia covers

Why Use Background Sources?

Encyclopedias help you figure out the who, what & where of a topic. Encyclopedias and dictionaries can provide background information and can be used to identify key people, events and dates which can then be used as search terms for finding additional information. Many also provide a jumpstart on your research by listing related readings.​ The resources listed here provide a sampling of the many background sources available on cinema. They include both print and online resources

Also search for film related topics in these three online collections: Pop Culture UniverseGale Virtual Reference & Oxford Reference Online.