Northern Kentucky University

Current Events and Issues; News: Reference Items

The following are recommended Reference titles available from Steely Library

These are suggestions only and do not reflect the full range of materials that may be useful to you. For additional assistance, Ask Steely Library!

CQ Researcher

Each week, the editors present an in-depth examination of a current issue chosen from a broad range of political and social fields including health and medicine, international affairs, education, the environment, the economy and technology. Within the package of research materials presented for the subject you will find ideas for specific research topics, opposing perspectives summarized, statistical data, and a bibliography of additional resources which will help you discover additional research material.

Facts on File: Issues & Controversies

This database offers detailed studies of current event topics, with background materials defining terms and lines of action being advocated, excerpts influential opinions are included, statistics and links to important primary sources are provided. Extremely useful are the bibliographies for further research. (Note: Facts on File offers three databases through this interface; be sure that Issues & Controversies: In-Depth Investigations of Today's Top Issues is in the top left-hand side of the screen as you begin your search.) If you are searching for an appropriate topic for your assignment, browse the Need A Research Topic box on the home page of this database.

Information Plus series

Varying call numbers according to the subject covered.

Series of handbooks on current social problems, providing analysis and extensive statistical information on such topics as domestic violence, water conservation, abortion and homelessness. Information Plus is the name of the publisher. Each book has a different title, so in order to find call numbers you must search in NKUIRE with the General Keyword Search using the phrase "information plus."

Opposing Viewpoints

Varying call numbers according to the subject covered.

Series of books on controversial issues.  Each book has chapters written by expert advocates arguing the pros and cons of each position.  To see the specific subjects in the series, search NKUIRE  with the General Keyword Search using the phrase "opposing viewpoints."

Contemporary World Issues series

Varying call numbers according to the subject covered.

Series presenting information on world current events, similar to the three sources above.  By searching NKUIRE with the General Keyword Search (using the phrase "contemporary world issues"), you will retrieve a list of individual books available. 

Credo Reference E-Books

An interdisciplinary collection of online reference works, including titles with broad scope such as the Encyclopedia of Ethics, Dictionary of Contemporary History: 1945 to the Present, as well as more specialized titles related to current events such as Guns in American Society and the Handbook of Environmental Sociology.