Definition

Noun: A unique identifier assigned to a library item, consisting of a combination of letters and numbers, which indicates its precise location on a library shelf. It is used to organize and retrieve materials systematically.

Usage

The call number is found on the spine of a book or other library material. Patrons use it to locate the item on the shelf. Librarians assign it based on a classification system like the Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress system. - To find the book, you need to note down its call number from the catalog. - The librarian helped the student understand how to read the Library of Congress call number.

Examples

• Basic Usage:

  • The call number for this history book is D 804.3 .G39 2003.
  • Please make sure you copy the entire call number correctly.

• In Library Context:

  • Items are arranged on the shelves in strict call number order.
  • If two books have the same call number, they are placed alphabetically by the author's last name.

Advanced Usage

• "to shelve by call number": to organize library materials in numerical and alphabetical sequence according to their call numbers.
  • Student workers are trained to shelve books by call number accurately.

Variants and Related Words

• Classification number (n): The part of a call number that represents the subject of the item.
  • The classification number places the book with others on the same topic.
• Shelf mark (n): Another term for a call number, more commonly used in some British libraries.
  • The shelf mark serves the same purpose as a call number.

Synonyms

• Accession number: A unique number assigned to an item when it is added to a library's collection. (Note: This is often different from a call number, which is based on subject).
• Class mark: A synonym for call number or classification number.

Related Phrases

• Call number range: A span of call numbers that defines a specific section of the library shelves.
  • The books you need are all within the QA 76.75 to QA 76.765 call number range.

Noun

1. a mark consisting of characters written on a book; used to indicate shelf location