Special Collections

Searching Special Collections

Items in Special Collections are organized by size (to maximize space) under two different call number systems (Dewey and Library of Congress). To find an item in Special Collections follow the instructions below:

1. Determine the size of the item you are looking for by looking in the description field of the catalog record.
2. Locate the size category for your item in the chart below.
3. Find the stacks range for the call number system that the item is cataloged under. For example, a 27cm book with a Library of Congress call number would be located within Ranges 1 through 6.
4. Still can’t find it? Check the Special Collections “re-shelving” and “in unit repair” areas.

Special Collections Sizes

Remember! We are no longer using colored dots (they fall off) to identify item size.  Instead, before shelving any Special Collections item, write on the top of the flag IN PENCIL the initials that identify each size.  We are using two letters in capitals so that there will be no confusion between Octavos and Quartos.