Which of the following punctuation marks is used in LCSH to indicate a span of years in subject headings?

The Correct answer is Hyphen.

Key Points

• LCSH Entry Format:
  • ​LCSH allows for various subject headings and cross-references.
  • Subject headings are listed in bold, while cross-references are in regular type.
  • A heading may include the notation "(May Subd Geog)" to indicate the possibility of subdivision by place and LC class numbers.
  • Scope notes provide guidance on the meaning or use of a heading.
  • References are categorized under the codes: UF (Used For)/USE, BT (Broader Topic), RT (Related Topic), SA (See Also), and NT (Narrower Topic).
  • USE/UF corresponds to "see also from," while SA/NT indicates "see also."
• Punctuation Guidelines:
  • Comma: Used to separate parallel terms (e.g., Hotels, Travels), noun and qualifier in inverted headings (e.g., Maps, Statistical), and surname from forename (e.g., Freud, Sigmund, 1856-1939).
  • Dash: Used to indicate subdivisions (e.g., Great Britain - History - Norman Period, 1066-1154).
  • Hyphen: Used for spans of years or open dates (e.g., English language - Grammar - 1870-1949; English language - Grammar - 1950-).
  • Parentheses: Enclose qualifiers (e.g., Pool (Game), Eliot, T.S. (Thomas Stearns), 1888-1965).
  • Square Brackets: Indicate multiple headings/subdivisions (e.g., Authors, American, [English, French, etc.]) or LC class numbers (e.g., Agriculture machinery [S 671-S 760.5]).
  • Period (Full Stop): Used as an abbreviation mark