Classification Systems and Call Numbers

Library of Congress classification is for books. Microforms, audio and video recordings, compact discs, and pre-cataloged materials each have different types of call numbers. Periodicals are shelved alphabetically by title.

The system currently in use is the Library of Congress classification system which was implemented in 1969. Call numbers are alpha-numeric. The first line of each number is made up of one, two, or three letters of the alphabet followed by two or more lines of letters and numbers.

Materials cataloged in the Library of Congress classification are shelved in one continuous sequence regardless of language. This sequence begins on floor 2M and continues to floor 1M. Folio books (over 30 cm. in height) are shelved on floor 1.

Example of a Library of Congress call number:

Titles on microfilm are assigned one line numbers prefaced with "microfilm G;. Microfiche are assigned one line numbers prefaced by the term "microfiche." Examples:

Video cassettes are assigned one line call numbers beginning with the term videorecord EAL. Audio cassettes, compact discs, CD-ROMS, and computer software have Library of Congress call numbers.

Materials which cannot be fully cataloged upon receipt are assigned numbers based on the order in which they arrive in the library. They are then shelved in numerical order in separate sections by language. The pre-cataloging process enables library users to have quick, direct access to new acquisitions. All books in the pre-cataloged section can be located in the catalogs under primary author and title.

Pre-cataloged books are all shelved on floor 1. Examples of pre-cataloged numbers are given below. Please note that there are two types of hyphenated pre-cataloged numbers: six digit and seven digit.