Oppslagsverk

Oppslagsverk is a term used in Norwegian to describe reference works that are designed primarily for looking up information rather than for extended reading. They cover a broad range of subjects and formats, from dictionaries and encyclopedias to gazetteers, bibliographies, handbooks, and biographical dictionaries. The word itself comes from oppslag (lookup) and verk (work).

The scope of oppslagsverk includes linguistic resources such as dictionaries and thesauri, general and subject encyclopedias, biographical dictionaries, and specialized reference works like geographic gazetteers and technical handbooks. Many oppslagsverk are organized to facilitate quick access, with arranged articles, cross-references, indexes, and illustrative material. They are often designed to provide concise, verified information, dates, definitions, and concise summaries that can serve as starting points for further research.

In libraries and education, oppslagsverk are valued for reliable overviews, quick facts, and bibliographic pointers. They are typically used on-site, though many have become accessible online, offering advanced search capabilities, hyperlinks, and up-to-date revisions. The editorial process varies by publisher and type, ranging from professional editorial oversight to more collaborative or periodically updated formats. Reliability depends on the quality of the editors, sources cited, and the frequency of updates.

Notable examples in Norwegian include Store norske leksikon, a widely used online encyclopedia, and various dictionaries and national reference works published by established scholarly presses. With the digital transition, oppslagsverk increasingly exist as integrated online platforms, enabling rapid lookup across multiple subjects while still serving as authoritative starting points for research.