Frequently Asked Questions

For Speech Classes we recommend the Speech guide on the library website.

Depending upon the type of speech required, we suggest the following resources:

Informative speeches

• Perform a search using the "Search everything" option on the tabbed search box at the top of the page.  You will get an idea of how much scholarly information is available on your subject.  Often you will retrieve a Research Starter which will provide excellent background information on the topic.
• Use the How to Use Search Everything tutorial to learn how to narrow or refine your search results.
• Credo Reference Online is also a tool for finding additional sources via online encyclopedias, reference collections, and dictionaries.

Persuasive Speeches

• Use the Opposing Viewpoints in Context database to discover pro/con perspectives on the hottest social issues, from capital punishment to immigration, to marijuana.
• Use the Points of View Reference Center's list of topics, each with an overview (objective background / description), point (argument) and counterpoint (opposing argument).
• Credo Reference Online for finding additional sources via online encyclopedias, reference collections, and dictionaries.