This training module introduces participants to the Library of Congress Classification System and call numbers. It explains that the LC system uses a series of letters and numbers to identify each book and arrange materials on shelves by subject. A complete LC call number has several parts, including the class letter, subclass, subdivision, cutter number, date, and volume.

1. Collection Management Training Program 3.0

2. Designed by Edward Suarez Updated by The LC Training Group- 2005 Collection Management Group Book Graphics by Rob Krack Supervised by Marie Brodman Credits

3. This training module will introduce you to the Library of Congress Classification System Classification Theory. Call numbers components. Using the call numbers for shelving.

4. Section 1: Classification Theory

5. Classification Theory Libraries need an organizational system to find their materials. Libraries arrange materials on the shelves so that items on a given subject are found close to others on that subject. This is called a classification system .

6. Classification Theory Many college and university libraries, however, use another one called the….. Library of Congress (LC) Classification System Because it was developed at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. in 1897.

7. Classification Theory The LC system of call numbers uses a series of letters and numbers to identify each book. Call Number

8. Classification Theory Of the twenty-one broad classes of knowledge such as Religion, American History, etc., each one is given a Library of Congress class letter. Only five letters are not used : I, O, W, X and Y. Once the call number of a book has been decided, it is placed on the book as a label, usually on the spine of the book. That way it can be seen when the book is on the shelf.

9. Classification Theory A complete LC call number is actually composed of several parts: V.1 1988 J66 76.8 QA Subclass Subdivision Cutter Number Date Volume

10. Classification Theory A vertical arrangement of call number components is the customary display used on books QA 76.8 .M3J66 1988 v.1 These call numbers can be found ...

11. Classification Theory Or on the Spine On the Cover