Popular question this week
Use the collection location and call number of a book to find it on the shelf.
When you search for a book in Library Search | Ketu, if we hold the book you’ll see it in the results list (you may need to use the ‘Tweak my results’ filters to narrow down the results). The information you need is just under the title:
What is the collection location?
The collection location tells you which library or libraries the book is held in, and which floor it’s on.
What is the call number?
Call numbers organise books into subject areas using letters and numbers.
The main classification system in Otago libraries is Library of Congress (LC).
The Robertson library also uses the Dewey Decimal system.
In this example, the book is available at the Central Library, on the first floor. The call number begins with HM.
Click on the book’s title to:
- Link to the ‘Find in Library’ map;
- Place a request on the book, or to request a scan (you will need to sign in);
- See other editions or locations, if there is more than one;
- See publication details and contents information (where provided).
What does ‘Reserve’ mean?
If the book’s on Reserve, you’ll see this in the collection location. The Reserve area is near the main entrance or service desk of each library. Books shelved here are in high demand and are available for short loans of up to two hours.
