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Find an item on the shelf

Confirm the item is available on shelf

When you have used Library Search to find the resource you need, check the record to confirm the physical item is Available.

Use the View location option in the record to identify the Library building physical location and campus.

Some items must be requested, including:

  • items held in our Library Warehouse storage facility
  • resources that require prior arrangement, such as those in our Fryer Library.

Log in to see detailed access information including request options and loan policy. Visit borrowing rules and charges for information about loan types and request items to learn more about request options.

Finding an item on the shelf

We use the Library of Congress call number system, which groups items by subject. Learn more about Library of Congress Classification

When you have confirmed the physical item is Available on shelf

  1. Take note of the Library location (e.g. Central), the Collection it is part of (e.g. General) and the Call number (e.g. QA276.12.F75 1997)
    • Some resources may also include a building Level to help you to locate the item, such as (Level 3) or (Level 3 or 4) when a collection is split across multiple levels.
    • For Central Library, the A-H call number range is on Level 3 and the I-Z call number range is on Level 4.
  2. Go to the location level and section you need. Look at the end of the shelves to see the range of call numbers shelved in that section. Call numbers are read from left to right, and from top to bottom.
  3. Items are ordered alphabetically and numerically by the call number on the book spine, e.g. Q > QA > QB, and QA275 > QA276 > QA277. The last part of a call number is the year of publication (e.g. 1997).

Clients with disabilities may request assistance with finding and using library resources. Visit support for clients with disability

Items not found on the shelf

If you can't find the item, check:

  • you have the correct library location, collection and call number.
  • the copy you need is available or submit a request if it's on loan.
  • the floor directory signs to make sure you're looking in the right area.
  • items on reshelving trolleys in that area. It's also possible someone is using the item within the Library. 

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