Libraries use classification systems to organize the books and videos on the shelves. Most high school and public libraries use the Dewey Decimal Classification System (DDC) and most college and university libraries (including Reynolds Libraries) use the Library of Congress Classification System (LC).
You may be more familiar with the Dewey Decimal system which uses only numbers to arrange materials on the shelves. The LC system uses a combination of letters and numbers to arrange materials on the shelves.
These classification systems allow each book and video in the library to be assigned a unique call number. A call number is like an address; it indicates where the book is located on the library shelves.
Anatomy of a Call Number
A call number label is attached to each book and video spine or front cover. Every item record in the library catalog also includes a call number. When searching the library catalog, you want to be sure to jot down the complete LC call number in order to locate the item on the shelf.
If you haven’t narrowed down your topic for a research assignment but have a general subject in mind, you can also browse the shelves if you know the beginning Library of Congress classification letters for that subject (e.g., BF – Psychology books; L - Education; PS – American Literature; R – Medicine)
Created by University of Arkansas Libraries.
