Library collections are organized by call numbers, which are alphanumeric (letter/number) combinations that serve as a locator for materials on the shelf. In the case of dance materials, most books can be located in between GV1580 and GV1799.

• GV 1580:  Periodicals
• GV 1585:  Dictionaries, encyclopedias
• GV 1588:  Philosophy (and theory)
• GV 1589:  Study and teaching
• GV 1590-GV 1594:  General works
• GV 1595:  Special aspects of the subject as a whole
• GV 1597:  Dancing as a profession
• GV 1600:  Dance criticism, appreciation
• GV 1645-GV 1728: Dance history (and historical dance)
• GV 1743:  National dances. Folk dances and dancing (General)
• GV 1746-GV 1771: Social dancing. Ballroom dancing
• GV 1781-GV 1795: Theatrical dancing
  • GV 1785: Biography
• GV 1796: Special dances.

Sample LC Subject Headings for Dance 

To search subject headings directly, use the Advanced Search in InfoHawk+ and use the drop-down menu next to the search box to change your search from "Any Field" to "Subject". Subjects can be very broad, like "Dance History" or very narrow, like "Dance -- North America -- History". Note that geographical location (e.g., United States) and chronological placement (e.g, 20th century) are added to subject headings to narrow their scope. 

Subject headings are also great for narrowing down to books ABOUT a person or organization, but not BY that person or organization.