1. To find a book in the library, you need to have the CALL NUMBER.
- To determine the call number of a specific book or books on a subject, use the library catalog. The library catalog is an online catalog which lists the books held in the USC System. You can look for a book by AUTHOR, TITLE, SUBJECT, or KEYWORD.
- If you do not find the book you need in the catalog, ask for help at the Reference Desk. To learn more about using the catalog, see the help screen.
2. Write down the call number and location of the book
- Use the first letter of the call number and a Call Number Location Guide (below) to locate the level on which the book is shelved. For example, If the call number is PN4512 .A9 1987, look on the Call Number Location Guide for the P's. They will be located on Level 3.
- If you are unfamiliar with Library of Congress Call Numbers, ask at the Reference Desk. There is a plan of each floor located by the elevators.
- Check the nearby shelves to see if the book has been misshelved. Check the reshelving area. There is a reshelving area on every floor.
- Check in the area around the copy machines.
- Ask at the Circulation Desk to put a locate on the book.
| A-D | Level 1 |
| E-L | Level 2 |
| N-P | Level 3 |
| Q-Z | Level 4 |
| Juvenile Collection | Level 5 |