8.5 Understanding Call Numbers

What is a Call Number?

The letters and numbers on the book's spine are called Library of Congress call numbers. They tell you where the book is and what it is about.  

For example, let's look at the call number for the book, Blind Injustice:

Book spine label showing call number KF9756.G63 2017

KF9756 .G63 2017

  • K = Law
  • KF = United States Law
  • 9756 = Judicial Error
  • G63 = Name of author
  • 2017 = Year of publication

Finding an Item by Call Number

Please watch the following 2-minute video on reading and understanding Library of Congress call numbers. This video demonstrates:

  • The different elements of a Library of Congress call number
  • How Library of Congress call numbers are ordered on a library shelf

Additional viewing options: This video has open captions. You may also use the text transcript if you prefer to read.

Call Numbers at Cabrillo Library

  • The arrangement of materials proceeds from left to right, front to back.
  • All of the shelf ranges begin on the left and progress to the right side of the building. A to N, then P to Z
  • When you get to the far right, you should return to the far left and continue on.

"Understanding Call Numbers (Research Minutes) Links to an external site.." YouTube, uploaded by Ryerson University Library & Archives, 14 Jan. 2011.