Dictionaries and Encyclopedias

Deaf Persons in the Arts and Sciences: A Biographical Dictionary

Lang, H.G., & Meath-Lang, B. (1995). Deaf persons in the arts and sciences: A biographical dictionary. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press.

Davis Reference           HV2373 .L36

            This biographical dictionary includes information on numerous deaf people who have had successful careers despite their hearing loss, a loss which many would view as a disability. The entries chronicle the individual’s accomplishments, but they also illustrate “how individuals challenged attitudes, communication, and other barriers to foster relationships and to achieve in a field of science or the arts.” The people included in the dictionary span a wide range of time periods, geographical locations, and fields of study. Each entry includes references for seeking further information. The dictionary also includes a selected bibliography and two appendices. Appendix A lists bibliographic information for additional people who were not included in the dictionary. Appendix B categorizes the subjects by field. An index allows one to search by name or topic.

The Encyclopedia of Deafness and Hearing Disorders

Turkington, C., & Sussman, A.E. (2000). The encyclopedia of deafness and hearing disorders (2^nd ed.). New York: Facts on File.

Chapel Hill Public Library Reference Section     R 617.8003 Tur

            This one-volume encyclopedia is a very helpful quick-reference source for hearing-related topics. It is set up alphabetically, but also has an index, and offers definitions and explanations or words and subjects. Its appendices offer helpful information on services, additional resources, and recommended readings.

Gallaudet Encyclopedia of Deaf People and Deafness

Van Cleve, J.V. (Ed.). (1987). Gallaudet encyclopedia of deaf people and deafness (Vols. 1-3). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Davis Reference           HV2365 .G35 1987

Also available: HSL Reference WV 270 G165 198 

            This three-volume encyclopedia includes topics related to deafness and hearing. It is arranged alphabetically and includes the name of the contributing author along with additional bibliographic information as necessary. It offers black and white diagrams, drawings, and photographs when applicable. The index is located in the third volume, and entries include the page and volume number. It is quite comprehensive in nature, and very useful for historical data or background information, but, since it was published in 1987, one must keep in mind that it may not offer the most current information on topics such as science or law.