How to Read Call Numbers Handout
Libraries use classification systems to organize the books and DVDs on their shelves. Most public libraries
use the Dewey Decimal Classification System (DDC) and most academic libraries (including UACCH Library) use
the Library of Congress Classification System (LC).
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
In the Catalog
Read call numbers by line:
F 1226 .F67 1997
On the
Shelf
Read the 1st line in
alphabetical order: A, B, BF,
CK, M, ML
Read the 2nd line as a whole
number. Read any number
after a decimal point as a
decimal number:
1, 2, 3, 55, 55.69, 55.7, 55.71
The 3rd line combines a letter
and numbers. Read the
letter alphabetically and the
number
as a decimal. Some call
numbers have more than
one combination letternumber line: .C65 = .65
.C72 = .72
The last line is the publication
date. Read in chronological
order: 1985, 1999, 2010
F
1226
.F67
1997
F
1226
.F67
1997
F
1226
.F67
1997
The first 2 lines of the call number describe the subject of the book.
The 3rd line often represents the author’s name
The year the book was published.
A call number is assigned to each book and audio/visual item in the library. When searching the library catalog,
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) .
Many thanks to J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Library in Richmond, VA
for much of the information in this guide.