The use of books varies by discipline in college-level research. In the humanities, scholarly books reporting on original research that is too lengthy to fit into a single journal article are an important part of the scholarly record. They are often published by academic presses and go through a peer-review process. Here, books and journal articles serve the same research function, and there are many important original studies that you will miss if you only look for journal articles as sources.
In the sciences, almost all original research is published in journal articles. Scholarly books provide authoritative overviews and introductions to topics, as well as setting standards for some fields. These books are acceptable sources for some college level assignments, but you should not substitute a book if your professor asks for a scholarly article.
The social sciences use books for both of the functions described above, and you will need to evaluate your book and your assignment to see if it meets the requirements.
PN1560-1590 The performing arts. Show business
PN1585-1589 Centers for the performing arts
PN1600-3307 Drama
PN1635-1650 Relation to, and treatment of,
special subjects
PN1660-1693 Technique of dramatic composition
PN1720-1861 History
PN1865-1988 Special types
PN1990-1992.92 Broadcasting
PN1991-1991.9 Radio broadcasts
PN1992-1992.92 Television broadcasts
PN1992.93-19 92.95 Nonbroadcast video recordings
PN1993-1999 Motion pictures
PN1997-1997.85 Plays, scenarios, etc.
PN2000-3307 Dramatic representation. The theater
PN2061-2071 Art of acting
PN2085-2091 The stage and accessories
PN2131-2193 By period
PN2131-2145 Ancient
PN2152-2160 Medieval
PN2171-2179 Renaissance
PN2181-2193 Modern
PN2219.3-3030 Special regions or countries
PN3035 The Jewish theater
PN3151-3171 Amateur theater
PN3175-3191 College and school theatricals