Find Books in TCL: Reading Call Numbers

Each book has a unique call number that identifies that particular book. Call numbers are a code so materials on the same topic can be shelved together. 

Wonder what those beginning letters mean in a call number?  Check out the link from the Library of Congress!

Check the chart near the elevators in Thomas Cooper Library to find out what call numbers are on which levels. A-D level 1, E-L level 2, N and P level 3, Q-Z level 4.

On each level near the elevators you'll find a floor plan. See the floor plan maps for Thomas Cooper Library below:

- Begin with the letter or letters.  A comes before AE which is before B, etc.

                       B 1                   BC 5                 BD 21              BF 1    

     Look at the end of the ranges to find the first and last call number on that row of shelves.  You are getting closer!

- Then by the numbers that come right after the letters.  The numbers are shelved in numeric order.

                 BF 1                 BF 11               BF 21             BF 112

- Then in alphabetical order and decimal order.  The call numbers below are arranged in correct order because .73 is smaller than .8

- There may be another line of letters and numbers.  If so, these will also be in alphabetical and then decimal order.

- Then by year of publication if one is given.

              BF21               BF 21

             .C8                   .C8

             .M4                  .M4

              1962               1990

• Government Information - Level 5
• Juvenile Books - Level 1
• Reference - Main Level (library use only)
• Reserve - Main Level Check-out Desk (library use only)