The Dewey Decimal System, or DDC for short, is the method our library uses to organize materials. DDC breaks down materials into ten different categories, each of which is assigned to a numerical range. For example, books about literature are located in the 800 range.
Materials in the 800 range are then further subdivided by subjects. In literature, the contents are broken down by the region of the world the author comes from. For example, books found between 810 and 819.9 are about North American authors.
With a basic understanding of the ten categories, you can browse the collection and have a general idea of where something is located. But understanding how books are arranged in DDC is helpful in two practical ways:
But, before you can find materials on the shelf, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Some tips for using our online catalog are found here.
... need a book checked out by another patron?
Books checked out to other patrons can be recalled. Fill out the Recall Form to request this service.
... want to use a book/article/resource that Alice Lloyd College does not own?
You can interlibrary loan materials from other institutions. Books, articles, and some audiovisual materials can be acquired using this method. Give us at least a week to request the item in question. Articles are delivered electronically, while books and AV materials arrive through the mail.
... can't find a book on the shelf?
Please ask one of the librarians to assist you in finding it. If the book is needed for the assignment, we can search for it. In any case, it helps us to know which books are misplaced or missing.
... just need help, period?
That's what the Public Services Librarian is here for--to help you find resources. Visit the library during working hours, or schedule an appointment.
