How it works
Academic libraries use Library of Congress call numbers to organize materials. These call numbers, found on the spine of the item, serve as the "address" for the book on the shelf. Call numbers keep materials on same or similar topics grouped together. Library of Congress call numbers use a combination of letters and numbers to identify an item.
Here is how to find the call number on the shelf
If your call number is HQ792.C3P76 2000:
HQ > Find the HQ section in the library. Start with H, then HA, HB...
792 > This is a whole number, follow the numbers in sequence to locate it.
.C3P76 > Look "alphabetically" and "numerically" to locate
2000 > Materials will be in chronological order, find the year
If you need help, please ask! Visit the Research Help Desk or Front Desk both on the main floor (3) or chat using Ask a Librarian.
Adapted from "Finding a Book on the Shelf" Kent State University Libraries
