GSU Library Research Guides: ENGL 1101 Fall 2023 (Colatosti): Background Reading

Library Handout for ENGL 1101

Img: Conrad Meyer, Allegory of Poverty and Wealth, Public Domain

Worksheet to work through research process
Worksheet shared in class on Oct 23rd

Background and Definitions

Oxford English Dictionary (OED) This link opens in a new window
The Oxford English Dictionary is the accepted authority on the evolution of the English language, providing definitions, etymological analysis, and quotations to demonstrate the use of words in the English language over time.
Gale eBooks This link opens in a new window
This multidisciplinary resource includes a wide variety of encyclopedias and almanacs.
Issues & Controversies This link opens in a new window
Updated weekly, this database offers in depth articles to researchers seeking understanding in todays crucial issues in topics such as politics, business, society and education.

Issues & Controversies: U.S Poverty Resources
Issues & Controversies: Housing
Issues & Controversies: Homelessness
Points of View Reference Center
Containing resources that present multiple sides of an issue, this database provides rich content that can help students assess and develop persuasive arguments and essays, better understand controversial issues and develop analytical thinking skills.
Points of View: Poverty (Overview)
Points of View: Homelessness (Overview)

Journalism and Media Research

Matthew Desmond Essay in NYT, March 9, 2023
"Why Poverty Persists in America."

New York Times (ProQuest Newspapers) This link opens in a new window
Coverage ranges from 1980 - current. The New York Times is considered the official U.S. newspaper because it publishes the complete text of important documents, speeches and presidential press conferences.
Los Angeles Times (ProQuest Newspapers) This link opens in a new window
Coverage ranges from 1985 - current for this resource provides access to top news stories and the information contained on various sections of the papers
News & Newspapers This link opens in a new window
- This link opens in a new window
Full text of U.S. and international news sources. Includes coverage of several major U.S. and international newspapers such as The Atlanta Journal Constitution, The New York Times, and the Times of London.
Newspaper Source Plus This link opens in a new window
- This link opens in a new window
Provides selected full text coverage for 245 national and international newspapers, newswires, and other sources.

Find Data & Statistics using advanced Google searching

An advanced Google search tip! Add "site:.gov" or "site:.edu" to your keyword search to limit to websites from an official government agency or educational website.

Bureau of Labor Statistics Reports
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is the principal fact-finding agency for the Federal Government in the broad field of labor economics and statistics.
U.S. Census Reports on Poverty
The Census Bureau provides poverty data from several household surveys and programs. Here you can find poverty estimates, learn about these surveys and programs, and get guidance on how to choose the right estimate for your needs.
HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2022
Guidelines for poverty threshold by state.
Poverty Solutions: University of Michigan
Though poverty may seem a straightforward concept, how we define and measure it is a matter of great debate. And this debate is important, because how we measure poverty is central to how we define, understand, and improve well-being in our society.
Learn more about current poverty metrics and how we measure poverty in the U.S.
Homelessness
HHS is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and supporting the delivery of essential human services.
United States Interagency on Homelessness
The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) is the only federal agency with a sole mission focused on preventing and ending homelessness in America.

Also consider organizations that center their work on homelessness and poverty:

National Alliance to End Homelessness
Look under Resources for Data & Graphics