Skyline College
Library

 

How to Identify Scholarly Books

 

 

 

 

1. Look at the Publisher : scholarly books are generally published by:
     - university presses (see a list at:  
Association of American University Presses Directory)

     - professional organizations (e.g. American Psychological Association, American Society of Mechanical Engineers

 

2. Look at the Author : authors of scholarly books will usually be identified as associated with an academic institution (e.g. a college or university professor) or a research or professional  organization (e.g. a think tank staff member)

3. Check for Citations : Scholarly authors cite their sources extensively.  They explain their research process by showing their sources, both within the text in a literature review or in general discussion, and as specific bibliographic citations.

 

 

 

 

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last revised: 2-26-09
by Eric Brenner, Skyline College, San Bruno, CA
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Skyline College Library.