Call Numbers
What's the address?
Every item in the library has its own address, the call number. Each part of the call number has a special meaning, for example:
A code indicating the physical location of the item is usually the first part
of the call number (e.g. REF, CHILD, FIC, or VIDEO).
For non-fiction, the next part is the DDC classification number that places
the item with other items on the same topic. For example, history is in the 900s and
science is the 600s.
The final part of the call number is often a letter/number code for the
author or title, making the whole call number a unique identifier. If there is more than
one edition, the year may be added, and sometimes a volume number is needed.
The classification number is like a street name -- it gets you to the right area in the library. But just as there are many houses on one street, there are many library items with the same classification number (because the subjects are the same). You need the exact house number if you don't want to jog up and down the street, knocking on a lot of doors! In a library that's what the book number is for - to get you to the exact item.
Call numbers and the catalog record
The call number is part of the catalog record and is also marked on the item or attached as a label. People can understand the call numbers, but automated systems use bar codes instead. So bar codes are also created as part of the process of preparing library materials to go on the shelf. Maybe before the end of this millennium, we'll all carry bar code readers and have bar codes on our foreheads - meanwhile you need to understand call numbers! Look at the example below.
What Now?
Technical services people prepare materials for users. Public services connect users with library materials. On the next page learn more about working with library users.
Complete the Activity, try the Explore section, and then go on to the next page: Users.
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