call numbers

Shelf location identifiers

Call numbers are the alphanumeric codes libraries assign to books and other materials to indicate their location on the shelves.

Each call number reflects both subject classification and a unique identifier, allowing patrons to find specific items: I looked up the call number in the catalog and headed to the third floor.

The two main systems are Dewey Decimal and Library of Congress.

Opposites
organizational system

call numbersdisorganization

Absence of systematic arrangement

chaos

identification method

call numbersbarcodes

Machine-readable product stripes

QR codes · RFID tags · ISBNs · RFIDs

Family

call, numbers, numerical, enumerate, innumerable, phone number, enumeration, numerate, enumerated

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Rated G