Locating books using classmarks

Each book in the library will have a classmark, consisting of a series of letters and numbers.

This code is shown on the spine of a book and allows all books on a similar subject to be shelved in a similar place.

You will find the classmark displayed for each book on NUsearch.

Classmark example

The classmark for “Urban habitats by C P Wheater” is (QH 541.5.C6 WHE) This can be broken down to explain how it works:

Please note that the format of classmarks can vary between different libraries and different campuses.

Finding classmarks on the library shelves

The classmarks are arranged in an alpha-numeric sequence. Each bay of shelving should tell you what classmark ranges are housed in that bay.

Searching for classmarks on NUsearch

You can search for classmarks on NUsearch. Type a simple classmark (e.g. QH541) into the search box and select the 'Books' filter'.