An annotated bibliography listing general reference works as well as those on social sciences, humanities, and science and technology.

Search skills of today bear little resemblance to searches through print publications. Reference service has become much more complex than in the past, and is in a constant state of flux. Learning the skill sets of a worthy reference librarian can be challenging, unending, rewarding, and-- yes, fun.

As it does each year, this invaluable, eagerly awaited guide will light the way for collection development specialists in smaller public, college, and school libraries, enabling them to easily identify the best, most affordable, and most appropriate new reference materials in any field. Featuring 550 titles chosen from the 2013 edition of the larger American Reference Books Annual, this volume caters to smaller libraries that must ensure every dollar of their often-limited budget is wisely invested. To help them do that, the editor has selected only titles that are highly reviewed, have a low price point, and will appeal to a broad audience. The book presents high-quality, critical reviews of 2012 reference products, both print and online, suitable for small college libraries, medium-sized and small public libraries, and school libraries. Chapters are arranged in four major subdivisions: General Reference, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Science and Technology. Within each, reviews are further divided by form: bibliography, biography, handbooks and yearbooks, and so on. Each review is written by a librarian working in the field and can be trusted to be accurate and fair. Each indicates the type of library or libraries for which the work is appropriate.

Essential for collection development specialists in small and medium-sized libraries, RRB will help users quickly identify the best, most affordable, and most appropriate new reference materials in any field. Based on the highly acclaimed reviews of American Reference Books Annual, RRB features only those resources that have been recommended for purchase by small and medium-sized academic, public, or school libraries. Written by over 200 subject specialists, the 500-plus reviews will help librarians quickly identify the best, most affordable, and most appropriate new reference materials in any given field. All reviewer comments—both positive and negative—have been retained, since even recommended works may be weak in one respect or another. If your budget precludes ARBA, this tool will provide you with the necessary information needed for your collection development needs.