Summer Bridge Program Resource Guide

In the United States, there are two primary classification methods that are used to organize books within libraries. While many high school and public libraries use Dewey Decimal classification, academic libraries (including OWU Library) typically use Library of Congress classification. 

In both systems, categories were determined to ensure similar books are shelved together. If you look at the spine of a library book, you will see a sticker with a "call number" on it. When you find a book in the library catalog, the call number is what you would need to find the book within the library. 

Library of Congress call numbers consist of a series of letters and numbers, for example QD400.B57 2012. The first part of the call number, "QD400", indicates the subject and where it would be shelved, which in this example is chemistry books. The second portion, "B57", is called a "Cutter number" and provides more detailed information about this specific book, such as whether the content is general or more specialized. The final portion of the call number, "2012", is the publication date for this item. 

Call numbers can be short or long and sometimes difficult to read. If you need help finding a physical book, ask a librarian for help!

Currently, physical books can be found at Hobson Library. If OWU Library does not own a copy of a book you need, you can borrow it from another institution by requesting it via OhioLink or InterLibrary Loan. More information about both of these services can be found under the "Library Resources" tab. 

In addition to physical books, OWU Library has access to thousands of eBooks. 

As a student, you can borrow (also referred to as "check out") up to 250 items at any one time. The length of time you can take items home depends on the type of item. For example, books can be borrowed for 5 weeks and renewed 3 times. To check out a book, simply take your OWU student ID and the item(s) you wish to borrow to the Circulation Desk located in Hobson Library. For more information on borrowing items, check out the "Borrow, Renew, Request" page on the library website. 

You may have a class where a professor notes that a textbook or other resource is available through "course reserve." These are required course materials that are available at no cost to you for use at the library or as an eBook. Make sure to check to see if your courses have books on reserve at the start of each semester.