How to Find Books by Call Number

Kent State University Libraries use the Library of Congress (LC) classification system for organizing and shelving books. Each book has a unique "call number" composed of letters and numbers, which is used to determine the book's placement on the shelf, and to group it among other books on the same subject.

Most books are shelved by their LC call number. Journals are shelved alphabetically by title.

After searching KentLINK, the online catalog:

Convert the call number from the catalog display to a vertical form (as it appears on the spine or lower front cover of a book):

Follow the model, descriptions and rules below.

• Periodicals, journals, and magazines are shelved alphabetically by title in our basement storage facility. They are available through our Library Services Desk on the 1st floor.
• Microformats (microfilm, microfiche, etc.) are available through our Library Services Desk on the 1st floor.
• Books, monographs, and other material with LC call numbers are shelved according to the following:

Using the first letter line of the the code and this building guide, you can figure out where in the library an item is located.

The following are location codes that may appear on material but are not part of the call number:

A complete list of the codes can be found here.

NOTE: If you cannot locate a book on the shelf where it should be, try these other helpful tips.

Items that you cannot locate may be requested through the KentLINK catalog. Requested items will be retrieved and placed on hold for you. Please ask at the Library Services Desk for further assistance.