American academic libraries use the Library of Congress Classification System for cataloging materials. You're probably thinking books….but that's only part of the picture. There are laser disks, CDROM, compact disc--audio, computer discs, maps, government documents, data files (print and online), video tapes, Braille, microfilm, and microfiche. In order for YOU THE PATRON to find something, it has to be organized. The LC system is more specific than the public library's Dewey Decimal system-----which helps in larger, academic collections.

Here is a quick guide from the Library of Congress.

The LC system originates with Thomas Jefferson's private collection, donated to the government upon his death. The system takes the letters of the alphabet---minus "I", "O", "W", "X", and "Y"---and assigns a subject area. Here is a list:

     Within each area, letters are added for specificity. For example, D is history, but….DS is Japanese history, DL is Denmark history, DG is Italian history. G represents geography, but ….GA is cartography and GN is ethnology.
     Understand the basic cataloging and shelving system, and begin to associate specific letters with subject areas-----it becomes handy when you want to browse the collection.
      The PCC Library uses S1 through S40 as shelf numbers; these are for directional use only, so the staff can direct you to a specific shelf.  
      Ask for help if you need it! Learning the system at PCC will help you use other academic libraries….like where you may transfer!