Social Work

A call number, also known as a classification number, is the numerical or alpha-numerical string of numbers and letters that libraries use to identify, organize, and find individual items on library shelves.

All print or paper copies of books in the library are assigned a call number, usually found on the book spine (this is often referred to as a spine label).

The call number represents what the book is about and acts like the book's address on the library's shelves, also known as stacks. Because books on the shelves are arranged in call number order, you will find books on similar subjects shelved near each other.

Spine Label Examples:

      Dewey Decimal                  Fiction                 Library of Congress

The Dewey Decimal Classification System is a classification system by which libraries organize their Non-Fiction collections numerically by subject.  The system divides all knowledge into 9 basic subject classes, ranging numerically from 000-999. All Dewey Decimal call numbers are at least 3 digits long, and may be further extended by the use of decimal numbers. Each digit of a Dewey Decimal number signifies a level of subject specificity.

Dewey Decimal # 361.3

The Dewey number 361.3 is designated for Social Work.  The broader Dewey numbers 361 & 362 are dedicated to Social Problems and Services.  If you wish to browse the library collection in search of resources pertaining to Social Work, this would be a good place to start. 

The Library of Congress Classification System is a classification system by which libraries organize their Non-Fiction collections alpha-numerically by subject.  The system divides all knowledge into 21 basic classes, each identified by a single letter of the alphabet. Most of these alphabetical classes are further divided into more specific subclasses, identified by two-letter combinations. Following these alphabetical headings, each topic is assigned a single number or a span of numbers. Whole numbers used in LCC may range from one to four digits in length, and may be further extended by the use of decimal numbers.

Library of Congress # HV40-69

The HV range of Library of Congress call numbers is designated for topics related to Social pathology, Social and public welfare, and Criminology. A more specific subset within this range, HV40-69 focuses specifically on Social Services, Social Work, and Charities.