Categories: Databases, Humanities, Web Resources
By Lisa Laughy - Library Web Services
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Deb Baker – Interim Reference Librarian
Do you want to know more about Islam, but don’t have a lot of time to spend looking for resources? Have a specific question and want a precise answer from a reliable source? Writing a paper and want to consult primary sources? Ohrstrom Library’s newest online reference database, Oxford Islamic Studies Online is suitable for both casual browsing and serious research.
When you open Oxford Islamic Studies Online, the toolbar provides drop down menus for several possible paths: search options, browsing, Qur’anic studies, timelines, and learning resources. Don’t miss this last choice, which offers a collection of trustworthy internet sites on Islam, a glossary, recommended reading with links to bibliographies, and two sets of reference articles: What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam, and Focus On. The editors’ introduction explains that these essays “are designed to stimulate thought and enhance understanding of vital aspects of the Islamic world.”
This desire to help curious readers gain a fuller understanding of Islam gives “Focus On” and “What Everyone Needs to Know” a smart, open tone – like listening to a favorite teacher’s best lecture. Oxford’s outstanding reference materials and user friendly tools make research accurate and simple. A date converter, Qur’anic verse lookup, and handy “cite” button that instantly provides Chicago or MLA citations are examples of Oxford’s thoughtful design.
Visit Ohrstrom Library’s website for brief descriptions of all the online databases available.
HELPFUL FOR: Humanities III & V, Humanities electives
FUN FOR: cultural creatives, news hounds, world travelers, journalists, art and architecture lovers
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Encyclopedia of Society and Culture in the Medieval World edited by Pam J. Crabtree, Facts on File, 2008.
Lura Sanborn – Reference Librarian