Omnivore BookSearch
Scholarly books disseminate research and academic discussion among professionals within disciplines. They are intended for academic study and research, and are preferred when writing college-level papers. They are published by academic or university presses.
Non-scholarly books typically do not examine a topic with a sufficient level of detail and intellectual rigor. They are not authoritative (the authors are often not academics). They are written to entertain and broadly inform, rather than to advance a field of study. Non-scholarly books are published by commercial presses.
Keep in mind: a non-scholarly book may be academically appropriate to use for some topics. The author may have experience and expertise in the subject. The information may be valid and useful for your coursework. Always check with your instructor and follow the assignment requirements.
Comparing Scholarly and Non-Scholarly Books
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Adapted from University of Toronto Libraries
The Culinary Institute of America | Conrad N. Hilton Library | 1946 Campus Drive | Hyde Park, NY 12538-1430
Telephone: 845-451-1747 | Email: library@culinary.edu