For background information, reference materials like encyclopedias, atlases, and dictionaries are great resources to learn about important people, places or events, and definitions especially if you're unfamiliar with the topic. For example, if you're researching a well-known psychologist, you can search for biographical information through one of the reference sources listed below or do a search in our library catalog.
APA Dictionary of Psychology by 
The Gale encyclopedia of psychology by 
The SAGE encyclopedia of psychology and gender by 
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5 by 
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by 
The Encyclopedia of Mental Health by