These specialized databases are excellent resources to use for all aspects of your literature research. The databases provide you with information on the authors, literary movements, and provide criticisms.
Reference books are encyclopedias and dictionaries that provide facts and brief articles on a subject. These materials can help you better understand a topic or might be useful with topic selection.
The library reference database Credo Reference is an excellent alternative to Wikipedia or a general Google search.
Enjoy your Octavia Butler as much as your Zora Neale Hurston? Check out Books and Authors to find your next book to read.