What is a call number?

Call numbers are sequences of numbers and letters printed on a label attached to the item and are assigned individually. Call numbers for books and journals are structured differently.

Structure of a book call number

Example: 01 AWE 112

• 01: Shelf mark
• AWE: Classification (subject group)
• 112: Serial number

In book call numbers, 1 to 3 elements may be appended to the ‘base call number’, for example: 80 AABD 101 (19)-1+1

• Indication of the edition in round brackets
• Volume number for multi-volume works and series, following a hyphen
• Counting of multiple copies using plus signs

Structure of a journal call number

Example: 42 46 R9

• 42: Shelf number
• 46: Subject group (subject code)
• R9: First letter of the journal title and serial number

To find an item in the library’s collection, look up its call number in the library catalogue.