Search terms will vary based on research topics. If you would like assistance with selecting search terms, please contact Library Staff or your Instructor.
Libraries using Dewey Decimal Classification
Libraries using Library of Congress Classification
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 # 621.3
The Dewey number 621.3 and its subsequent decimal values are designated for Electrical Communications, Computer Engineering, Electronics, and Lighting. If you wish to browse the library collection in search of materials related to electrical principles, 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 # TH7700-7975
The TH7700-7975 range of Library of Congress call numbers is designated for topics related to Illumination & Lighting. This is a very specific section of the much broader TH range, which focuses on resources related to Building Construction.
Library of Congress # TK
The TK range of Library of Congress call numbers is designated for topics related to Electrical engineering, Electronics, & Nuclear engineering.
This guide is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
A Member of Minnesota State