How to Read a Call Number
 | < Libraries@Mason uses the Library of Congress Classification system to arrange books on the shelves so that books on the same topic are shelved together. Each book has a unique call number that begins with one, two, or three capital letters followed by numbers. Most call numbers appear on the spine of the book or video. A call number is like an address - it tells where the book is located in the library. Check it out! |
| Read it! | Read call number top-to-bottom, line by line |
| LB | First Line: read in alphabetical order. Example: LB before LC |
| 2395 | Second Line: read as a whole number. Example: 2395 before 2396 |
| .C65 | Third line: read the letter alphabetically. Read the number as a decimal. Example: .C6499 before .C65 |
| 1991 | Last Line: can be publication date, volume or copy number and/or other annotation |
| Find it! | Guide signs posted on each book stack end indicate the "neighborhood" for the book's call number. |
| Need help? | Just ask! Librarians and reference desk staff can assist you. |