How to Find a Book in the Library

On the library catalog search screen, put keyword(s) in the search box and select a search option: Words or Phrase, Author, Title, etc. to begin searching.
For this example, we are going to search for "pollution."

From the search results list, click on "Details" to view the full record of the item.

From the "Item Information" tab, you will see the item holdings and call number. Write down the entire call number for the item.

Note the location given. Some locations you might see are:
General Collection - location is on the main shelves
Reference - in-library use only
Nursing – Nursing Collection
Juvenile Resources – Juvenile Collection
Due 12/12/2005 – Item is checked out

What are call numbers?

A call number is like an address for a particular item in the library. It is unique to each item and tells you where the item is located in the library.
After finding a specific book using the library catalog it is important to copy down the entire number-letter combination in order to find the book, since the entire number identifies the item.
For the example we are using, you would write down: 550.3 Mur.

Where do call numbers appear?

Matching call numbers from the library catalog also appear on the spines of each book and video.
Note: The same call number can be written from top to bottom...

... or from left to right ...

This is the call number for Environmental Science: A Self-Teaching Guide.

To find a book on the shelf, locate the proper range for your call number using the shelf label on the ends of each row of bookcases, called "stacks." You will find your book in that range.

To find the book Environmental Science: A Self-Teaching Guide, you must first look for the shelves labeled 500, as shown below.

After you have located the 500 shelves, then look for the 550s:

When you have found the books with 550 on their spines, then look for 550.3, then 550.3 Mur.

That’s it!

Other examples of call numbers you might see are:

What next? If you decide to use a book you find in the library, it is a good idea to make a copy or at least write down certain information. This information will be used in your list of references, also called your works cited page or your bibliography. 

The information you will need includes the title, author, publisher, copyright date, and, occasionally, the name of the editor. A good way to make sure you have that information is to photocopy the title page and the copyright page. Examples of these pages are below:

Can’t find the book you need?  Try Interlibrary Loan.

If Pardue Library does not have the books you need, you may borrow books from other community colleges in North Carolina. Simply select “ALL” libraries on the first page of the library catalog search screen:

Write down the title of the book you need, the author’s name, the call number, and the name of the library that owns the book, and contact Pardue Library.

When the book arrives, a librarian will call you and let you know it is available.

Note: Interlibrary loaned books are only for use in the library. They may not be checked out.

 Begin searching the Online Catalog now!   

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