Each item in the SU Library collection has a unique call number. Call numbers appear in the catalog record and serve to point the user to the item’s location on the shelf.

How does this work?

Like most academic libraries SU uses the Library of Congress Classification (LC) system.

Call numbers are assigned by subject. For example, the letter H is the area for the Social Sciences, and HV is the subdivision for Criminal Justice.

Subjects are further subdivided by numbers. HV 7436 is the area for Gun Control.

Following that is a second set of letters and numbers that distinguish the individual item.

The example below shows you how to read and follow a call number from the catalog record to the shelf.