Reference books include encyclopedias, directories, and other similar books designed for easy access to information.
They are handy and informative, so use them as a starting point for your research! This is often a quick way to find out important names and events, get ideas for keywords to use in online searching, and get an overview of your subject.
Print reference sources can be found in the stacks with a label marking them as reference & have call numbers beginning with REF. Dance books generally are under the numbers REF GV1580-1799.4.
As you start your research, ask yourself: What information do you already know about your topic? What information would be useful to know?
Encyclopedias and dictionaries are good sources to consult when you are at the beginning of your research and you are compiling the basics about your topic.
Also, search the catalog for books on your topic that can provide a detailed history of it. Books are extremely useful for getting started in your research & providing background knowledge to build on.
Biographical Dictionary of Dance
by
Barbara Cohen-Stratyner
Dance Encyclopedia
by
Anatole Chujoy