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Finding Resources: In the Library

Not sure how to search for a particular item? Want to learn how to use a database? Use this Guide to get all the best tips and tricks.

What Does This Catalog Status Mean?

Location Status What this means
Main Library Books

Located in the Main Stacks (see our call number map for locations). - Can be checked out for a semester.
Main Library 3 Hour Reserve Located behind the Circulation Desk, give staff the call number. - Can be checked out for limited time (usually 3 hours).
Main Library Reference Located on the Main Level near the Information Desk. - Cannot be checked out.
Main Library Oversize Located on the Lower Level in standalone section near Archives. - Can be checked out for a semester.
Archives   Located on the Lower Level. - Cannot be checked out, visit sarahlawrence.edu/archives for more information. 
Music Library   Located at Marshall Field. - Check out depends on item type. 

 

Have Questions?

Book a research consultation with a librarian

Email us at reference@sarahlawrence.edu
 

Information Desk

Can't find the item you are looking for? We are here to help!

You can visit the Information Desk or call us at 914-395-2474

How to Read a Call Number

What is a Call Number?

The call number is the "address" for a book. Use it to locate books (and other items) at the Library. 

  1. Read the first line in alphabetical order. For example, PR would come before PS. 
  2. Read the second line as a whole number and in numerical order. For example, 1541 would come before 1631. 
  3. The third line is a combination of letters and numbers. Read the letters alphabetically and the numbers as a decimal. For example, A3 would come after A133. 
  4. In many cases the last line will be the year the book was published.

Location of Subject Areas in the Library

Library of Congress Subject Areas

Location Subject Area
Upper Level A - General Works 
  B - Philosophy, Psychology, Religion
C - Auxiliary History of Science
D - World History and History of Europe
E - History of the Americas
F - History of the Americas
G - Geology, Anthropology, Recreation
H - Social Sciences
J - Political Science
K - Law
L - Education
Main Level M - Music and Books on Music
N - Fine Arts
P-PQ - Language and Literature
Lower Level PR-PZ - Language and Literature
Q - Science
R - Medicine
S - Agriculture 
T - Technology
U - Military Science
V - Naval Science
Z - Bibliography, Library Science, Information Science