What’s a call number?
Most physical items you can access in the library have a call number, which is a combination of letters and numbers that provide details about the item, such as its year of publication, topics, and other standardized information.
Knowing an item’s call number can help you find where it’s located in the library.
We use the Library of Congress classification system, the Dewey Decimal system, and SuDocs.
You don’t need to know which is which to find an item on our shelves. But you can learn how they’re different in our research guide.
Find an item in the library using its call number
Use Library Search to look for the item you want.
If the item is in our catalog, it will show up in search results, along with the library locations where a copy can be found.
When you select one of these locations — such as “Shapiro Undergraduate” — you’ll be able to see the following details:
- the number of copies available at that location
- the floor of the building where the item is located
- the checkout status of each copy, from “on shelf” to “checked out”
- the item’s call number
Selecting the “Get This” link in the item record will suggest a number of ways in which you can access the item.
Taking the item off the shelf
To get an item off the shelf in person, you’ll need to pay attention to the floor of the building and the call number.
You can view the floor at our floor plans by locationto see which shelves include the alphabetical call number range —and thus the item —you’re looking for.
You can also go to the floor directly and follow the call number signage along the shelves.
If you need help finding an item, contact us at Ask a Librarian.
What if an item doesn't have a call number?
Items won't have call numbers if they can’t be shelved physically, like e-books or streaming versions of films.
Instead, you’ll get a direct link to the database where you can access it.
Other items, like those in special collections, will show a “Request this” link to set up an in-library viewing.
