Locate Books in the Library: Home

Books in libraries are organized using classification systems. Like many academic and research libraries, Frohring Library uses the Library of Congress Classification system.

This system arranges books by subjects, meaning that similar topics are grouped together on the selves, making it easier to find related materials nearby the books you are looking for.

Start your search on the library catalog. Once you find a book, you will have all the details to locate it in the library:

• The first line tells you in which section of the library the book is located.
• The second line gives you the call number.

What is a call number?

The call number is a sequence of letters and numbers that help you locate a book in the library. The first part indicates the subject of the book, while the second part generally represents the author’s last name. The last line contains the date of publication.

In this example:  P = Language and Literature PS = American Literature 591 = Poetry N4 B525 = Author Code

How do I find a book on the shelves?

Check the table in this guide to find where collections are in the library, keeping in mind that: 

• Call numbers are organized alphabetically, starting with the first letter on the left;
• They are subsequently organized numerically according to the numbers that follow.

Here's a sample shelf of books with the call numbers explained: