The University of Delaware Library uses the Library of Congress classification system to arrange most materials. Call numbers begin with one, two, or, rarely, three capital letters followed by numbers. Example:

PS
3521
.E375
B62

To find a book or bound periodical for which you have the call number, first check the signs posted in the lobby of Morris Library.

Finding Which Floor

Call number locations signs posted in the Library and on the Library Web indicate the appropriate floor and section of the Library. Look at the top line of the call number. "PS 3521" would be shelved on the second floor, since call numbers beginning P through Q are located there.

Note: Words or abbreviations before the call number indicate locations other than the main stacks in Morris Library. Check the locations guides for an explanation.

Specific Shelf Locations

1. Alphabetical order: P, PA, PB, PC....

2. Numerical order: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.......

3. Decimal order: .4 is greater than .375; .8 is greater than .24. Example:

Always read from the top of the call number to the bottom (from the general to the specific). For example, using the call number above, first find where the PS books are shelved, then PS 3521, then PS 3521 .E, then PS 3521 .E375, etc.