A call number is a series of letters and numbers that helps you locate a physical item on a library shelf.
College and university libraries use the Library of Congress Classification System (LC) to organize books, DVDs, and more. These call numbers group similar subjects together, which makes browsing easy. If you find a resource on a topic of interest, books nearby might also be of interest. No matter what academic library you visit, your research subject should be in the same call number range.
Tip: Not all books on a topic will be in the same section. Some topics may cross several disciplines and be shelved in different areas. For example, "women artists" might be located under women's studies, fine arts, history, and more, so check multiple sections.
Once you locate a book in SCAD Libraries' online catalog, the call number will help you find it on the shelf. The call numbers are arranged alpha-numerically.
Tip: Shorter books may have their call number in the bottom left-hand corner of the cover instead of the spine
The first two lines describe the subject of the book.
SF 426 = Dogs
The third line often represents the author's last name or the authoring institution's name.
A53 = American Kennel Club
The last line represents the date of publication.
2010
