I've used Wikipedia to help customers when the topic they are asking about is too current to have information available in other sources. Pop singers is one that comes to mind. There is the necessary disclaimer about not knowing the source or accuracy, but often it gives a starting point for information that can be verified and references that are sources that can be cited.
I have been disappointed at times and surprised at other times. Recently I looked at CCSVI, a newly named diagnosis that is linked to MS. There is little in print (2 academic research papers). The internet is buzzing, news media are going nuts, patients and their families are clamoring for treatment, and the medical profession is saying, whoa! Misinformation abounds. But the article on Wikipedia is balanced, accurate as far as I know, and very well referenced.
I found one article with a spelling mistake that I fixed but I had to look hard for it!
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