Library Guides: Social Work Library Guide: Getting Started

Background Info: Encyclopedias Online

These sociological and social welfare encyclopedias are available online!

Encyclopedia of Social Problems
An interdisciplinary reference source for the social problems affecting our complex societies.

Encyclopedia of Social Work This link opens in a new window
Copublished by the National Association of Social Workers and Oxford University Press, the 20th edition of the Encyclopedia of Social Work is widely considered the cornerstone of reference in its field.

Encyclopedia of Social Theory
Perspectives from sociology, economics, philosophy, anthropology, political science, women’s studies, cultural studies, psychoanalysis, and media theory (among others) are presented in this encyclopedia.
Encyclopedia of Social Welfare History in North America
Provides basic information about the history of social welfare in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Also available in print.

Women's Studies Encyclopedia This link opens in a new window
Greenwood Press's Women's Studies Encyclopedia presents a wealth of scholarship in the field of women's studies. It includes over 700 entries prepared by 425 scholars from all disciplines.

Background Info: Encyclopedias in Print

Navigating Capitol Hill

Social work is intimately tied to public policy decisions and politics. At the federal level, knowing the players in these policy debates can be crucial. The following resources will help you navigate the political personalities involved in important policy and social justice initiatives.