How to Set Up Your Own Reference Library

Many of us need to write a paper once in a while. Writing can be for business purposes, pleasure, writing a novel, or preparing a speech. Having a ready resource is very helpful. Every writer should have certain references included in their personal library.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A book shelf near your work space
• Money for books

How to Set Up Your Own Reference Library

1. Shopping for reference materials can be expensive but it does not have to be costly. Almost every community has at least one second-hand book store.
   When you are beginning to write you can accumulate paper back books and as you find hard bound, exchange the paper backs.
2. Look for recently published reference materials. Definitions have been modified as our language as changed through the years.
3. Basic reference library should include a Dictionary, Thesaurus and a good Grammar book. Serious writers may want a current copy of a Writers Market or a Poets Market. Depending on your type of writing will depend on the rest of your library.
4. A writers reference library might include the following, a Bible, Concordance, book of famous quotations, medical terminology, guide to literary agents, a book on marketing your writing and a book on mythology. Technical writers will have books on their specialty. Each subject you write about may have another book. These books should be near your work space for easy access.

Tips & Warnings

• Your budget will be your ruler. Acquire the books you need when you need them.
• You may also use an online library by using your Bookmarks to mark those reference materials you wish to use.
• Any library is only useful if it is used.
• Do not over purchase if you are not a serious writer

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.