How To Read a Library of Congress Call Number

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How To Read a Library of Congress Call Number


Librarians use Library of Congress call numbers to arrange books and other types of materials on shelves.

The call number shows exactly where a book is located and it brings together on the shelf the books and other materials on similar subjects.


Call numbers are:

  • Arranged alphabetically

A before

P before

PA

  • Use whole numbers

P 267 before P 268

  • Example 2

PA 10 before PA 128

  • Use decimal numbers

PA 128 .25 before

PA 128 .3 before

PA 128 .325

  • May use a second letter after the decimal point

PA 128 .S25 before

PA 128 .S3 before

PA 128 .T2

  • May use a date at the end to distinguish between editions

PA 128 .S25 before

PA 128 .S25 1999

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--updated by Bryan Clark, baclark@bradley.edu, 3:55, 19 August 2009 (CDT)

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