Television

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PN: Performing Arts, Show Business

NYU Libraries, like most academic libraries, uses the Library of Congress Classification system to organize its collections.  Each book is assigned a call number based on its subject area and "PN" is the beginning of the call number for books on Performing Arts, Show Business.  The numbers below represent more specific subject areas of classification:

• 1600-1692 Dramatic theory, playwriting, composition
• 1865-1999 Special types of drama:
• 1991 Radio
• 1992 Television (history, theory, individual shows, writing for television)
• 1993 Film journals
• 1993.5 Film history (general history first, then grouped alphabetically by country)
• 1994-1995 Film theory and appreciation
• 1995.9 Films by special topics (e.g., detective films, film noir, war films, etc.)
• 1996 Screenplay writing
• 1997 Screenplays
• 1998 Directors (biographies and criticism)
• 2000-2900 Actors and actresses (biographies and studies)
• 3000-3299 Dramatic representation, theatrical management, staging, accessories, pageants

Subject Searching

Consider conducting a subject word (not just a keyword) search in the library catalog. Directors, film genres, and the titles of major films and television series can also be used in a subject search. 

Examples of subject headings to try:

• Motion picture producers and directors--Interviews.
• Motion picture producers and directors--Mexico--Biography.
• Motion pictures--Nigeria.
• Nair, Mira--Criticism and interpretation.
• Motion pictures--Korea (South)--History.

Other tips:

• Using the catalog to look for books is preferred.  Patrons wishing to browse the shelves may consult the list above for broad call number ranges.
• You may need to broaden your search or try alternate keywords before finding books on a particular topic.
• Use an article database to find specific journal articles by going to Articles and Databases.
• If you already have a relevant book or article in hand, use its bibliography to find other sources on the same topic.
• Due to major space restrictions in the Library, Some materials may be located online only.  In the catalog some books will be noted by Off Site.  These can usually be requested via the Bobst Library Catalog, and are available by the next day for pickup.