Encyclopedias, guides, handbooks, etc. are good starting points. You can get an overview of a topic (perhaps enough information for your assignment). Even if you need more, entries in an encyclopedia will identify keywords to use to search for further information (in articles or other sources).
These titles can be found on shelves in the Library:
And these titles can be found online as ebooks in the Gale Virtual Reference Library:
eBooks: Academic Collection (EBSCO)
The Peninsula Library System Catalog shows the books available from libraries throughout San Mateo County. To access and search the catalog, you will need go to the library's homepage and select the Books tab. Once selected, type in the keyword (e.g. your topic) that you are researching then select the Go button.
To search for books only at Cañada, under the pull down menu select Search Cañada Library.