A whole new world: using international information sources Available to Purchase

Purpose – ‐‐ This paper aims to introduce readers to international governmental information sources.Design/methodology/approach ‐‐ The paper offers an introduction to international information sources and research methods as well as governmental structural information while providing an overview of the United Nations and European Union as well as several other sources.Findings ‐‐ International information comprises governmental, intergovernmental and non‐governmental sources. Knowledge of government structures with regard to international governments can provide guidance in locating specific governmental information.Research limitations/implications ‐‐ Due to myriad information sources, it is impossible to provide a comprehensive overview of international governmental sources. Also, technology and changing governments add to the challenge of becoming familiar with informational sources in a shortened amount of time.Originality/value ‐‐ This paper provides an introduction to international governmental sources for the general reference librarian with the ultimate purpose of providing clarity and confidence when offering international governmental reference services.