Call Numbers

Here's an example of a call number: REF 658.8 BAD

Let's break this call number down into the three codes.

REF: prefix

658.8: Dewey number

BAD: suffix

The prefix code indicates what type of item this is (fiction, non-fiction, reference etc).This item is located in the Reference collection.

The Dewey number is part of the Dewey decimal classification system. The Dewey system organises subjects by a numerical code. Libraries all over the world use the Dewey system to organise their resources, and to provide a numerical order for resources on the shelf. In this case, 658.8 is the subject code for marketing. If you went to the library shelf and found this number, you would find similar books on marketing.

The suffix is normally the last element of the call number. This normally represents the author's name. In this case, the suffix is 'BAD' which are the first three letters of the author's family name, 'Badger'.

Click here to see further information about call numbers and finding items on the shelf.

Call numbers

The call number of an item indicates the shelf location of the item.

All catalogue records will have a call number. The call number tells you where you can find the item on the shelf.

When checking the catalogue record, it is important to note down the entire call number and the branch at which the item is held if you want to be able to find the item on the shelf.

Call numbers are made up of three elements or codes: the prefix, the Dewey number and the suffix.