Reading Call Numbers
Most of the books in the library are arranged on the shelf according
to LC (Library of Congress) call numbers. Call numbers usually appear
on the lower spine of the book.
The following explanation of LC call numbers uses the book Introduction
to Electrodynamics, 3rd ed., by David J. Griffiths as the example.
The call number for this book is QC680.G75 1999.
| QC |
The first line of an LC call number contains letters and is
ordered alphabetically. For example, A, B, BF, K, Q, QA, QB,
QC, QCD, T, etc. |
| 680 |
The second line of the call number is always a number and
ordered numerically. For example: 74, 218, 3218.3, 5031, etc. |
| G75 |
The following line or lines contain a letter and a number
and are read first alphabetically and then in decimal numeric
order. For example: A6, A64, A641, A72, A8 etc. |
| 1999 |
Often, the above parts of call numbers are followed by a year.
Sometimes you will also see copy and volume numbers as part
of the call number. |
In order to find an item on the shelf using its call number, you
must read each part of the call number, line by line, starting with
the first line until you have ordered the entire call number. Reading
from left to right, the following call numbers are in correct shelf
order.
Q
25
L3
1979
|
QA
35
F46
1993 |
QB
2013
E4
1989 |
QC
1991.4
S82
A3
1993 |
QC
1991.4
T37
1983 |
QC
1991.4
T7 |
QC
1991.4
T73
c.2 |
When looking for a book in the library read the call numbers posted
on the ends of each shelving range. These show the first and last
call number of the items in that range. Then use the call number
to locate the item on the shelf. If you have any trouble locating
a book, be sure to ask for help at the Information/Circulation
Desk.
Originally developed by Molly Moss (SLAC Library)
Last modified:
September 21, 2006
|
