Wikipedia:Offline sources: Difference between revisions

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That Wikipedia relies extensively on online sources is not surprising, considering the relative ease of accessing such materials. There is also an additional advantage of using online sources, because it allows all users to evaluate the source and its value to the article. However, this reliance on online sources can lead to [[Wikipedia:Recentism|recentism]], where most articles and content are from the [[internet era]].
 
Special care should be taken when using offline sources. Make sure to provide full bibliographic information, often by using a fully-filled out [[Wikipedia:Citation templates|citation template]], like {{tl|cite book}} or {{tl|cite news}}. TheComplete moreinformation datahelps availableWikipedia's onreaders find the source when they need it, and also increases the moresource's likelycredibility thatamong itthe willWikipedia editing community (who may otherwise be acceptedskeptical asof aits [[WP:RS|reliable sourcereliability]] by the community). Second, use the <code>quote=</code> parameter within those [[Wikipedia:Citation templates|citation templates]] to provide some context for the reference. This is especially important when using the off-line source to support a fact that might be controversial or is likely to be challenged.
 
Sometimes, the use of an offline source will be challenged. Be sure to [[WP:AGF|assume good faith]] for the user who cited the offline source. They might even be able to provide you a scan or an excerpt from that source. Consider visiting your local library to obtain a copy. Even if the library doesn't have that particular book or journal article, it might be available through [[interlibrary loan]]. Also consider posting an inquiry on the relevant [[Wikipedia:WikiProject|WikiProject]], because some interested editors might have a copy of that source. The volunteers at [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Resource Exchange|WikiProject Resource Exchange]] might be able to help you coordinate your search.