Oxford Dictionary of National Biography

Abstract

Purpose

-- The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography including a brief history but with the focus on its electronic format.

Design/methodology/approach

-- A historical account of the forerunner publication is provided, followed by consideration of the content of the new electronic version in contrast to that provided in the earlier print editions. There is also consideration of the structure of the work, with a look at the “added value” features provided. Illustrative examples are used throughout.

Findings

-- The Oxford Dictionary of National Biography continues to provide comprehensive coverage of notable British figures and is easy to navigate and use in its electronic version. Most significantly, it remains an essential resource for libraries, especially in the UK.

Originality/value

-- There have been many reviews of the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, but this is one of the few to have been published in recent years providing an overview with a focus on the advantages of the electronic version. For information professionals it offers a useful summary of the main features of this resource and a reminder of its continuing value as a biographical information tool.

Citation

Kendall, J. (2013), "Oxford Dictionary of National Biography", Reference Reviews, Vol. 27 No. 7, pp. 10-13. https://doi.org/10.1108/RR-07-2013-0169