Integrating reference material directly into an application program, so that the information can be presented to a user. An application program initiates a request for information, such as a request for a definition of a word, an address, material related to the subject matter of a document, updated information or information tailored to a particular user. The request for information includes any necessary identifiers, such as a language identifier, key words, a unique identifier or a user identifier. A reference engine receives the request for information and selects the appropriate reference material source. The reference material source can be part of the system running the application program or can be external to the system. The reference engine accesses the appropriate reference material source and obtains the requested information. The information is returned to the application program which presents the information to the user in a manner that is helpful to the user.