Reference works are typically designed to be consulted, rather than read from cover to cover. For this reason, they can't be checked out.
Examples would be encyclopedias, dictionaries, almanacs, handbooks, and indexes. Use UC Library Search to find the call number and location of reference works. You can also find reference works for a particular subject by using our subject guides.
Our most heavily-used reference sources, such as article indexes, are online. You can find these by using the Research page or the subject guides.
The main print reference collection is on the 2nd floor, Ocean Side of the UCSB Library, across from the Ocean Side elevators. Other reference works are located in the individual collection areas such as Curriculum Resources, Ethnic and Gender Studies, etc.
