Background information helps:
Background information includes basic information on a research topic such as:
Try these library databases for topic overviews and access to online encyclopedias:
Reports and statistics on current controversial issues. Numerous charts, graphs and sidebar articles, plus a pro-con feature, chronology, lengthy bibliographies and a list of contacts, round out each report. Coverage: 1923 – present.
Collection of scholarly/peer reviewed, magazine and newspaper articles on social issues. Includes media, maps, websites and statistics.
Coverage: varies.
Encyclopedia, dictionary and biographical entries from hundreds of sources for most subject areas. It includes images, diagrams, maps and photos, and audio pronunciation files and sound clips. Coverage 2000 – present.