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Waidner-Spahr Library

Citing Sources: Citing Nontraditional Sources in Chicago

Need Help With A Source?

If you are trying to cite a source not listed on this page or anywhere else on this guide, consult the Chicago Manual of Style Online or a librarian for help.

Citing Nontraditional Sources

Esoteric and nontraditional sources are cited in very specific formats in the Chicago style. These sources are most often cited in the notes and bibliography style, as it can be difficult to create a concise in-text citation for nontraditional source information.

The links below will take you to the 18th edition of the Chicago Manual of Style Online sections on these source types, with descriptions and examples. 

Websites, Blogs, and Social Media

Interviews and Personal Communications

Papers, Contracts, and Reports

Special Types of References

  • Manuscript Collections
  • Reference Works
  • Artwork and Illustrations
  • Indigenous Sources
  • Scriptural References
  • Classical Greek and Latin References
  • Classic English Poems and Plays
  • Musical Scores
  • Databases/Datasets
  • Patents and Standards

Multimedia

  • Recordings and Live Performances
  • Videos, Podcasts, and Apps

Legal and Public Documents (the library has the 2015 edition of The Bluebook: Uniform System of Citation)

  • Cases and Court Decisions
  • Constitutions

Legislative and Executive Documents

  • Canada
  • United Kingdom
  • International Entities