At SMU Libraries, all library materials are labelled with a call number on the spine (or cover).
Purpose of the call number:
- To enable users to easily locate the item on shelf
- To group library items by subject
SMU Libraries uses the Library of Congress Classification (LCC) schemes for our call numbers. To know more about LCC schedules, please visit Library of Congress website.
Reading Library of Congress (LC) call numbers:
| Components of a call number: |
|---|
 |
| Arrangement of library materials in ascending order based on call numbers: | |
|---|---|
| HC29 INT 2002 | comes before the below because 'C' before 'D' |
| HD28 AD | comes before the below because '0' (i.e. 28 = 28.0) comes before '1' |
| HD28.15 KEL | comes before the below because '1' comes before '6' |
| HD28.6 ETM 1993 | - |