GUIDE TO SOURCES IN GENDER &
WOMEN’S STUDIES
in the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
http://www.library.illinois.edu/sshel/genderwomens/gwsgui.html
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Location of Materials ........................................................................................................... 1
Call Numbers ...................................................................................................................... 2
Article & Journal Databases ................................................................................................ 2
Background Information: Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, & Handbooks ................................ 3
Atlases & Maps ................................................................................................................... 9
Bibliographies.................................................................................................................... 10
Biographical Sources ........................................................................................................ 10
LOCATION OF MATERIALS
All titles listed in this guide are located in the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL)
Reference Collection unless otherwise noted.
The location SSHEL RCC indicates the item is in the SSHEL Reference Circulating Collection.
 designates online books and reference material; including dictionaries, encyclopedias, and
handbooks; which can be accessed from the Library Catalog (http://vufind.carli.illinois.edu/vf-uiu/).
 designates online databases and journals; including abstract, index, article, review, and book review
databases; which can be accessed from the Online Journals & Databases page:
http://sfx.carli.illinois.edu/sfxuiu/az.
Questions? Contact SSHEL via email (sshel@library.illinois.edu), phone (217-244-1864), online
chat, (www.library.illinois.edu/askus), or in person (SSHEL North – Room 100 and SSHEL South –
Room 101, Main Library).
Print and PDF subject guides are updated yearly. The online subject guides may be updated more
frequently.
CALL NUMBERS
Call numbers are groups of numbers and/or letters that classify library items by subject. Items are
arranged on bookshelves by call number. The Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL)
uses both the Dewey Decimal and Library of Congress classification systems.
DEWEY
SUBJECT
306
306.85
306.8
305.31
306.2
305.8
Culture & institutions
Family
Marriage and family
Men
Political institutions
Racial, ethnic, national groups
306.89
306.76
306.7
305
306.4
Separation and divorce
Sexual orientation
Sexual relations
Social groups
Specific aspects of culture i.e. language,
science, art, etc.
Women
305.4
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS (LC)
HM621-656; HM826
HQ503-1064
HQ503-1064
HQ1088-1090.7
JA76
HT1501-1595 (races); GN495.4-498 (societal and
ethnic groups); GN550-674 (groups by region or
country-primarily traditional/small-scale societies)
HQ811-960.7
HQ18.5
HQ12-449
HM716-753
HM621-656
HQ1101-2030.7
ARTICLE & JOURNAL DATABASES
Databases are structured sets of information, stored in print or online. Often, databases are online
collections of journal article citations and full-text. Find articles about a specific topic by using keywords,
subject headings, authors, and more.
Online 
GenderWatch. 1970-.
This database provides full text articles from scholarly journals, magazines, newspapers,
newsletters, regional publications, books, and governmental and special reports. The
publications indexed focus on how gender impacts a broad spectrum of subject areas.
Contains archival material that dates back to 1970.
Online 
LGBT Life.
Abstracts and indexes a large variety of journals, newspapers, and monographs as well
as provides full text for 50 of the most important and historically significant LGBT
sources. Many of the sources indexed contain information relevant to women’s studies.
Online 
Women and Social Movements in the United States, 1600-2000.
This resource is organized around the history of women in social movements in the U.S.
between 1600 and 2000. Includes 100 document projects and archives with almost 3,950
documents and 150,000 pages of additional full-text documents, written by some 2,150
primary authors.
Online 
Women’s Studies International. 1972-.
Indexes nearly 800 different sources on women’s studies and feminism from 1972 to the
present. Journals, newspapers, newsletters, bulletins, books, book chapters,
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 2
proceedings, reports, theses, dissertations, NGO studies, important websites and web
documents, and grey literature are all included.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: DICTIONARIES, ENCYCLOPEDIAS, & HANDBOOKS
Background information can be found in reference sources, online or in print, such as dictionaries,
encyclopedias, and handbooks. Dictionaries contain brief definitions, usually only a sentence or two in
length. Encyclopedias provide a more in-depth description, usually a few paragraphs in length.
Handbooks contain descriptions that can be multiple pages and describe the development and future of a
subject.
Dictionaries
306.76603
D561:E
Dictionary of Homophobia: A Global History of Gay & Lesbian Experience. 2008.
This work provides a comprehensive overview of homophobia and the cultural
conditions of gays and lesbians internationally. The volume is arranged alphabetically
and each entry contains a bibliography and list of related terms. It also contains a table
of all entries as well as a selection of homophobic statements from print sources and
public officials.
Online 
Historical Dictionary of the Lesbian and Gay Liberation Movements. 2013
This book documents the liberation movement, which started in 1969, and continues on
to present day. It is a research tool for those interested in the issues and conflicts that
play a role in the movements. It also discusses significant people, organizations, and
events that helped further the movement. A list of acronyms, abbreviations, and a
chronology of events is also included.
Encyclopedias
305.403
B322
Battleground: Women, Gender, and Sexuality. 2 vols. 2008.
This encyclopedia is designed to give the reader an accessible reference to the most
controversial issues and debates pertaining to women’s lives, gender, and sexuality. Its
97 entries reflect the large and diverse field of women’s studies. Each entry gives a
concise background and history of the issue as well as a list for further readings. Also
includes a bibliography and an index.
305.23081
B691
Boy Culture: An Encyclopedia. 2 vols. 2010.
Explores the ever-changing aspects of boys’ identities and notions of masculinity. Entries
are arranged by topic, including identity, health, and a variety of media, music, and
technology representations. Each of the 167 entries is signed and contains a list of
references. Volume 2 contains a selected bibliography and an index.
306.403
C8991
Cultural Encyclopedia of the Body. 2 vols. 2008.
This encyclopedia provides cultural histories of various internal and external human body
parts. Some entries have a focus on United States culture while others have an
international focus. Entries are arranged alphabetically by body part and each contains a
section on further reading and a bibliography. Selected entries have illustrations. Volume
1 contains entries A through L as well as a chronology of significant events in the cultural
history of the human body. Volume 2 contains entries M through Z and a comprehensive
index for both volumes.
305.4203
En195
Encyclopedia of Feminist Theories. 2000.
This encyclopedia is an accessible, multidisciplinary insight into feminist thought. It
contains over 500 authoritative entries on key themes and ideas relating to feminism,
starting with second-wave feminism in the 1960s. Each entry contains cross-references
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 3
and a bibliographic guide to further reading.
Q.
305.309
En192
Online 
Encyclopedia of Gender and Society. 2009.
This two volume set provides articles on gender scholarship within areas of social
research from the individual to the global level. Entries are arranged alphabetically by
subject and each entry contains a cross-referenced list of related subjects along with
references. Both volumes include a comprehensive list of entries. Volume 2 includes an
index to both volumes.
Online 
Encyclopedia of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender History in America.
2004. 3 vols.
“Brings together and focuses on different kinds of knowledge about sexualities and
genders” and “covers more than 400 years of historical development” in the United
States. Organized alphabetically, entries are biographical and topical in nature, and
include bibliographic references and cross-references. Provides a chronology of major
developments from 1566-2003, and a directory of LGBT libraries and archives in the
U.S. and Canada.
306.7403
En192
Encyclopedia of Prostitution and Sex Work. 2 vols. 2006.
This encyclopedia includes 341 entries on social, cultural, geographic, and medical
topics related to prostitution. Entry topics range over time from antiquity to the present
and address all regions of the world, with emphasis on the West and the past 250 years.
Most entries include cross-references and suggested further readings. Appendices
provide primary sources on topics; poems and song lyrics; documents by sex workers;
and legal documents and commentary.
Online 
Online 
Encyclopedia of Sex and Gender. 2007.
This resource addresses issues such as sex and gender at the personal and social level;
issues of identity, status, class, ethnicity, race, and nation; sexuality and the body and
social institutions; and the structures of representation.
306.703
En193
The Encyclopedia of Sex and Gender: Men and Women in the World’s Cultures. 2
vols. 2003.
This encyclopedia provides a comparative perspective on issues involving conceptions
of gender, gender differences, gender roles, relationships between the genders, and
sexuality. Chapters are arranged under topical sections and under various cultures.
Online 
973.03
En1922
Encyclopedia of Women and American Politics. 2008.
Containing over 700 entries arranged alphabetically, this single volume covers the
people, issues, and events involving women in U.S. politics. Broad topics are crossreferenced with related key events and people. Includes a biography of every woman
who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Supreme
Court. Most entries include suggestions for further reading. The audience is high-school
and junior college students, but is suitable for anyone looking for introductory information
on this subject. Appendices include a chronology of highlights in women’s political
history, as well as statistics and primary documents. Includes a bibliography and index.
Q.
305.403
En192
Encyclopedia of Women and Gender: Sex Similarities and Differences and the
Impact of Society on Gender. 2 vols. 2001.
This encyclopedia covers many topics exploring current research and scholarship
conducted on the psychology of women and gender. Attention is given to differences
between males and females, and also differences between women of different ethnic
backgrounds and cultures.
Online 
305.4869703
En19
Encyclopedia of Women and Islamic Cultures. 6 vols. 2003-2007.
This encyclopedia is an interdisciplinary resource that brings together the work of over
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 4
1,000 scholars writing on women, Muslim and non-Muslim, in areas of the world where
there have been significant Muslim populations. Each volume is organized by theme and
region. Each volume has its own index, and volume 6 is a cumulative index for the entire
set. Topics covered include research methodologies, family and law, sexuality,
economics, education, and representations of women in Islamic cultures. A bibliography
of writings on women and Islamic cultures is included in volume 1.
Q.
305.4097303
En198
HPNL Ref
Q.
613.04244
En192
Online 
Online 
Encyclopedia of Women in American History. 3 vols. 2002.
This encyclopedia is divided as follows: v. 1. Colonization, revolution, and the new
nation, 1585; v. 2. Civil War, western expansion, and industrialization, 1820-1900; v. 3.
Suffrage, world war, and modern times, 1900-present. Shorter entries are biographical
and topical. Longer articles analyze and interpret developments in women’s history from
the sixteenth to the twenty-first century.
Encyclopedia of Women’s Health. 2004.
Provides A to Z coverage of important issues affecting women’s health. Entries are
written from medical, psychological, sociocultural, spiritual, historical and legal
perspectives. Of note is the special focus on issues as they apply to minority women,
rural women, the elderly, and other underserved populations.
From Suffrage to the Senate: An Encyclopedia of American Women in Politics.
2013.
This online resource chronicles the American women’s quest for political power and
social equality. It covers the individuals, organizations, movements, and other legislative
and legal milestones that have altered political history. The work includes biographies of
women who have served in the Senate and House of Representatives, the judiciary, and
the U.S. cabinet. Volume two contains a special documents section of texts and
speeches, statistics, and a chronology of women’s political progress over the past 150
years. Also includes biographical references and a comprehensive index.
See also The Women’s Suffrage Movement: A Reference Guide, 1866-1928. 2001
(324.6230941 C856w) which profiles 400 individuals and 800 organizations involved with
the women’s suffrage movement in Britain.
306.76603
G25
Gay Histories and Cultures: An Encyclopedia. 2000.
This volume presents information on issues pertaining to gay history and culture.
Includes topical and biographical entries; biographical entries profile both historical and
contemporary figures, but only famous individuals are included. Each entry is
extensively cross-referenced and includes a bibliography.
370.8203
G285
Gender and Education: An Encyclopedia. 2007.
Divided into two volumes, this resource explores current issues in gender and education.
Articles are divided into ten subject areas covering such topics as gendered theories in
education, curricular issues, teaching, and educational policies. To facilitate research,
each article also cross-references other relevant articles within the encyclopedia. There
is also a comprehensive index in volume two.
Online 
305.235203
G443
Girl Culture: An Encyclopedia. 2 vols. 2008.
Contains more than 250 entries which address topics concerning girl culture ranging
from the 1920s to the present. Most entries contain a list for further readings as well as
cross references. The encyclopedia is divided into three parts: the first part is an
introductory chapter which gives an overview of girl culture. The second part is titled
“Studying Girl Culture: A Reader’s Guide” and contains a series of critical essays on
different aspects of girl culture. The third and final part is the alphabetical entries on girl
culture topics. Includes an index.
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 5
306.703
G856
Online 
The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Love, Courtship, & Sexuality Through History. 6
vols. 2008.
This work explores love, courtship, and sexuality through the lenses of various beliefs,
art, literature, and individuals. Each volume represents a different historical period.
Individual volumes include a selected bibliography, an index, and information about
contributors. Each entry includes suggestions for further reading.
305.42
G856
The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Women’s Issues Worldwide. 6 vols. 2003.
This encyclopedia attempts to convey an accurate picture of women’s lives in 138
nations from six geographical regions: Asia and Oceana, Central and South America,
Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, North America and the Caribbean, and SubSaharan Africa. Entries are organized by nation and follow a uniform format throughout
that gives a profile of the nation, an overview of women’s issues, and a more detailed
discussion of other key issues including education, health, and violence. Entries include
visual aids such as maps and photographs. Each entry also contains a research guide
with a bibliography and suggested reading lists that include print, web, video, and
organizational resources. Each volume contains an introduction and user guide for the
series, a volume-specific introduction and index, and a glossary when necessary.
Complete index in Sub-Saharan Africa.
363.96097303
H629
Historical and Multicultural Encyclopedia of Women’s Reproductive Rights in the
United States. 2002.
Provides an interdisciplinary introduction to a variety of topics related to American
women’s reproductive rights. Not only does it discuss reproductive rights in relation to
race, class, sexuality, and disability, it also tries to reflect the diversity of opinions
surrounding issues of reproductive rights. Individual topics are explored in a variety of
contexts and controversial terminology is used interchangeably when appropriate. Each
entry is signed and contains resources for further reading. Entries are arranged
alphabetically and indexed by topic. Also contains an index of court cases regarding
reproductive rights.
HPNL Ref
Online 
324.62303
H195i
International Encyclopedia of Women’s Suffrage. 2000.
Demonstrates “the international dimensions of the demand for women’s rights to vote.”
Focuses on the U.S and the U.K, but a number of other countries are also mentioned.
Entries range from half of a page to a page in length, include images, and are crossreferenced with “see also.” Provides a useful chronology that lists the year women
obtained full suffrage in individual countries.
306.76
L599
LGBTQ America Today: An Encyclopedia. 3 vols. 2009.
This interdisciplinary resource traces the history of the LGBTQ movement within the
United States. Focused specifically on developments of the past 60 years, this set
covers historical figures and events, and the impact of the LGBTQ population on culture
and the arts, medicine, and law. The entries are arranged alphabetically. Each entry
includes references for future research. Each volume has an alphabetical listing of
entries at the start, and Volume 3 contains a comprehensive index.
306.766303
L563
Lesbian Histories and Cultures: An Encyclopedia. 2000.
This volume presents information on important lesbian issues. Includes topical and
biographical entries; biographical entries profile both historical and contemporary figures,
but only famous individuals are included. Each entry is extensively cross-referenced and
includes a bibliography.
306.766
R765
Routledge International Encyclopedia of Queer Culture. 2006.
Covering gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender life and culture post-1945 with a strong
international approach, this source lists entries by theme and subject, as well as
alphabetically. Appendix A includes a listing of archives of LGBT material for further
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 6
research, appendix B charts international sex laws, and appendix C compiles
international political and community organizations. Useful for the general student as
well as the specialized researcher.
Q.
305.403
R765
Routledge International Encyclopedia of Women: Global Women’s Issues and
Knowledge. 4 vols. 2000.
This encyclopedia focuses on ideas and actions in relation to women and does not
contain biographical entries. It consists of 13 thematic categories: 1. Arts and Literature
2. Culture and Communication 3. Ecology and the Environment 4. Economy and
Development 5. Education 6. Health, Reproduction and Sexuality 7. History and
Philosophy of Feminism 8. Households and Families 9. Politics and the State 10.
Religion and Spirituality 11. Science and Technology 12. Violence and peace 13.
Women’s Studies. Articles are arranged in an alphabetical order across themes.
Online 
Sexual Violence and Abuse: An Encyclopedia of Prevention, Impacts, And
Recovery. 2013.
The preface of this two volume set states that “most entries have focused on
heterosexual sexual violence since most of the available research still focuses on such.
We also know, however, that males can be victims and that females can be
perpetrators and that violence can occur between the same gender. Hence, several
entries cover these topics” (xx).Entries range from drug abuse to ethics to intersections
with other forms of abuse to legal responses to theory. Each entry is signed, provides
references to other entries, and lists further readings.
305.4203
W842
The Women’s Movement Today: An Encyclopedia of Third-Wave Feminism. 2 vols.
2006.
Provides information about the third-wave of the women’s movement. Volume one
consists of 200 A-Z entries focusing on U.S pop culture. Thirty-seven of the 200 entries
are biographical and cover a diverse range of individuals. Volume two contains primary
documents, mostly "nonfiction pieces from crucial books and magazines."
371.826603
Y888
Youth, Education, and Sexualities: An International Encyclopedia. 2 vols. 2005.
This guide contains current research, policy, and practice regarding lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth throughout the world but primarily in the United
States. It includes 250 entries with references. Entries cover issues such as suicide,
counseling, gay-straight alliances, popular culture, racism, prostitution, HIV education,
pregnancy, fraternities, and gender roles.
Handbooks
305.90664097
Sm641g
Gay and Lesbian Americans and Political Participation: A Reference Handbook.
2002.
Provides an overview and analyses of the LGBT political participation in four crucial
spheres of protest, social movement, electoral politics, and public office. Individual
chapters cover gay and lesbian participation in electoral politics, protest politics, social
movements, interest groups, and political office-holding. Entries cover important people,
laws, and terms. Includes a directory of organizations and a chronology of major events
that covers the dates 1920 to 2002.
305.90664
G256
Gay and Lesbian Rights in the United States: A Documentary History. 2003.
This volume tells the history of the fight for gay and lesbian rights in the United States
through primary documents. Includes speeches, letters, congressional testimony, court
decisions, government reports, biographical accounts, position papers, statutes, and
news stories. Arranged in chronological order and grouped together under general
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 7
historical themes, it includes documents both for and against gay and lesbian rights.
HQ1180.
G4655
2013
Gender: The Key Concepts. 2013.
This volume provides an introduction to the major theories and concepts in gender
studies. Each of the 37 entries provides a critical definition of the subject, written by an
expert in the field, and examines its genesis, usage and major contributors. Taking an
interdisciplinary and global view of gender studies, concepts include: agency, body,
class, diaspora, feminist politics, gender identity, heteronormativity, performativity,
reflexivity, subjectivity. With cross referencing and further reading provided throughout
the text, this volume explores the relationships between different aspects of the field
defined as gender studies. Includes bibliography and index.
305.42
G28551
Gender and Women's Leadership: A Reference Handbook. 2010.
This two-volume handbook contains 101 entries exploring the role of women within the
interdisciplinary context of leadership studies. Entries are arranged thematically, first
more generally in articles exploring feminist theory, history, social movements, and
global studies, then in sections dedicated to exploring female leadership in various
professional fields, such as business, religion, academia, sports, and the media, among
other fields. Sections also begin with an overview of leadership in each area. Articles are
signed and contain lists of references and further reading. Includes an index.
Online 
Q.
306.7072
H191
2011
Handbook of Sexuality-Related Measures. 2011.
Contains descriptions, sample questions, and acquisition information for over 200 tests,
questionnaires, and scales that measure sexuality and related beliefs, behaviors, and
topics, including 100 new and updated entries for the 3rd edition. Each entry is written
by the test’s author(s) and contains a list of references, as well as contact information for
the author(s). Entries are arranged by topic and cover areas such as birth control,
identity, and abuse. Includes a list of the scales included (arranged by lead author’s last
name) and an index.
Online 
Handbook of the Sociology of Gender. 2006.
This e-book is divided into four sections. The first section, called Basic Issues,
examines gender theory, feminist epistemology, and gender differences and similarities.
The second section, called Macro-structures and Processes, consists of seven chapters
with topics such as comparative gender stratification, gender and migration, poverty,
gender movements, gender organizations and gender in cultures. Section three, called
Micro-structures and Processes, addresses topics such as gender socialization, gender
and social roles, gender and interaction and gender violence and harassment. The final
section consists of thirteen chapters that look at the relationship between gender and
social institutions. Includes an index.
Online 
International Handbook on the Demography of Sexuality. 2013.
This volume attempts to bridge the information gap in sexuality for the field of
demography (the statistical study of human populations).This e-book is broken into five
parts: introduction and overview to demography of sexuality, sexual practices in the
global picture, sexual practices across the life course, sexual identities, and applying
demographies of sexuality to policy. Each chapter is signed. Includes index.
305.405 L72
2013
The Little Data Book on Gender. 2013
This item is a quick reference for users interested in gender statistics. It presents
gender-disaggregated data for more than 200 countries in a straightforward, country-bycountry reference on demography, education, health, labor force, political participation,
and the Millennium Development Goals. Summary pages cover regional and income
group aggregates are also included, as well as a glossary.
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 8
305.4203
Ic7
2001
The Routledge Companion to Feminism and Postfeminism. 2001.
This source is divided into two parts. Part I consists of four essays that give an overview
of the development of feminist thought in Great Britain and America, and examine the
impact of the theories and ideas on various areas of culture. Part II provides information
about feminism’s most prominent thinkers, activists, performers and writers.
306.77
Se911
Sex and Sexuality. 3 vols. 2006.
The articles in this resource investigate the roles of biological, sociocultural and
psychological factors in human sexuality. Chapters provide detailed overviews of topics,
including recent scholarship and trends, and conclude with bibliographies and avenues
for further research.
323.34
W84222
Women and Politics Around the World: A Comparative History and Survey. 2 vols.
2009
This two volume set includes essays on political issues affecting women around the
world. Both volumes contain a comprehensive table of contents, introduction, and a
comprehensive index that covers both volumes. Volume 1 is compromised of essays on
women and politics. Volume 2 is compromised of country profiles of selected nations
and related political issues for women. Each entry contains an extensive list of
references.
ATLASES & MAPS
Atlases are collections of maps.
305.4091724
At655
Online 
305.42
Se13w
2009
Atlas of Gender and Development: How Social Norms Affect Gender Equality in
Non-OECD Countries. 2010.
While it is well-established that gender equality reduces poverty, most sources only
measure the outcome of these disparities, not their causes. The OECD uses the Social
Institutions and Development Index (SIGI) to evaluate non-OECD countries in Africa,
Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. Each entry discusses the five areas measured by
SIGI: family code, physical integrity, son preference, civil liberties, and ownership rights.
Each entry also contains a brief summary of gender, society, and the law as well as a
map, general statistics, and multiple charts conveying aspects of the SIGI rating.
Includes a glossary of international legal terms and a bibliography organized by region.
The Penguin Atlas of Women in the World. 4th ed. 2009.
This work provides maps and statistics pertaining to women worldwide. The atlas is
divided into sections by topic. Topics covered include women and discrimination, family
rights, birth rights, women’s rights concerning their own bodies, the workforce, access to
resources, voting rights, and health statistics. A list of sources used for statistics and an
index are included.
BIBLIOGRAPHIES
Bibliographies are lists of citations of books, websites, journals, articles, and other resources about a
specific subject. Bibliographies can appear at the end of a book, journal, or an encyclopedia article, or as
a separate publication.
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 9
JC599.U5
H273
2012
American Women Civil Rights Activists: Biobibliographies of 68 Leaders, 18251992.
Contains entries for 68 women civil rights activists active from 1825-1992 who worked for
numerous underrepresented populations, including African Americans, Latino Americans,
Native Americans, children, lesbians and gays, adoptees, older adults, differently-abled
persons, prisoners, education, and more. Each entry provides a biographical sketch with
information about the woman’s birthplace; education; important events and
achievements; children, parents, siblings, and others who have had an impact on the
activist’s life and work, and an extensive bibliography of works by and about the activist.
016.8108
B652g
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Literature: A Genre Guide. 2008.
This volume provides a general reading guide to adult LGBT fiction. Works are arranged
in chapters according to subgenre and each entry includes a bibliographic citation,
annotation, symbol noting whether it is of interest to gays, lesbians, bisexuals, or
transgendered readers, award received, subject headings, and read-alikes. A chapter on
the history of LGBT literature and a chapter on collection development and readers’
advisory in the genre are included. Also contains a bibliography, author/title index, and
subject index.
016.3014242
St5w
2004
Women’s Studies: A Recommended Bibliography. 2004.
This fully annotated source maps the literature of women’s studies, covering thousands
of titles and websites in 19 subject areas published between 1985 and 1999. This source
is intended as a reference and collection development tool.
BIOGRAPHICAL SOURCES
Biographical sources provide information about a single person or multiple people.
303.484
L269a
A to Z of American Women Leaders and Activists. 2002.
This reference features U.S. government officials, state and local office holders,
suffragist leaders, women’s liberation leaders, and leaders in other sociopolitical
movements. It includes 145 biographical entries and covers the years 1800 to 1959.
305.4209224
B52
A Biographical Dictionary of Women’s Movements and Feminisms in Central,
Eastern, and South Eastern Europe: 19th and 20th Centuries. 2006.
This book describes the lives, works and aspirations of more than 150 women and men
who were active in women’s movements in 22 countries in Central, Eastern and South
Eastern Europe during the 19th and 20th centuries. Entries provide biographical
information, a photograph of each person, and a list of sources for further reading.
Online 
Online 
Black Women in America. 2nd ed. 3 vols. 2005.
Chronicles the history of African-American women from 1619 to 2004. Includes
approximately 150 topical and over 335 biographical entries.
Q.
305.42092273
F349
Feminists Who Changed America, 1963-1975. 2006.
Profiles many of the founders and leaders of the second wave of the women’s
movement. The 2,220 biographical entries include the famous as well as grassroots
organizers. All attempts were made to be inclusive of race, sexual orientation, class,
and geographic location. Lists archival information on each individual when available.
305.40956
T143h
Historical Dictionary of Women in the Middle East and North Africa. 2013
This book features the biographies of female and male historical figures, feminists,
writers, and others who have furthered women’s rights in the Middle East and North
Africa. There are over 400 entries that cover feminism, culture, and religion.
HPNL Ref
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 10
920.7208997
N213
2001
Native American Women: A Biographical Dictionary. 2nd ed. 2001.
Provides over 250 biographical entries on Native American women born between 1499
and 1965. Focus is on Cherokee and Sioux women. “Features familiar historical figures
and lesser-known contemporary women.”
Online 
Notable American Women, 1607-1950. 1971.
This three-volume set contains information on 1,359 women who died between 1607
and 1950. Entries consist of name, dates, career/profession, and a lengthy annotated
bibliography with primary and secondary sources. Wives of presidents are excluded.
Two additional volumes extend the coverage of this source. Notable American Women:
The Modern Period: A Biographical Dictionary (HPNL Ref 920.7 N8431) includes
biographies of 442 women who died between 1951 to 1975, and Notable American
Women: A Biographical Dictionary Completing the Twentieth Century (Main Ref
920.720973 N843) profiles 483 women who died between Jan. 1, 1976 and Dec. 31,
1999. All three titles are available online through the library catalog.
Q.
920.
7208996
N843
Notable Black American Women. 1992-2003.
This work defines the lives of black women from colonial times to the present. Lists 300
women born between 1686 and 1970. This volume includes pioneers, entrepreneurs,
leading businesswomen, literary and creative figures, leaders of social or human justice
movements, major government officials, creative figures in performing arts, noted
orators and public speakers, and educators.
HPNL Ref
Online 
Oxford Encyclopedia of Women in World History. 2008.
This work provides over 650 biographies of influential women and over 600 topical
articles covering topics such as geography and history, culture and society,
organizations, movements, and gender studies. The encyclopedia presents the
experiences and contributions of women not only in the Western world, but across the
globe, and hopes to tell the story of how women worldwide have influenced and been
influenced by these historical, social, and demographic changes. A bibliography is
included with each article. Subject index is provided.
April 2016
 = Search the Library Catalog.
 = Search Online Journals & Databases.
Gender & Women’s Studies Resources 11