FAQ

How do I format a call number?

Correct formatting of call numbers is very important in Alma and Primo VE (OneSearch). If a call number is formatted incorrectly, it won't appear in the results when you search by call number type. In Analytics, an incorrectly formatted call number will show up as "Unknown" classification type. Here is a quick guide to call numbers in MARC.

 

852 Field

Call numbers in MARC can be present in both the bibliographic record and the holdings record.

Call numbers in the bib record:

  • Exist in the LC Classifications, Dewey Classifications, and Other Classifications dimensions in multiple subject areas in Analytics
  • Can be used to populate the holdings record

Call numbers in the holdings record:

  • Exist in the Holding Details dimension in the Physical Items subject area in Analytics
  • Display in OneSearch
  • Can be searched in call number browse in OneSearch

It is possible to have more than one 852 field in a single holdings record if each contains $t but this is strongly discouraged because call numbers do not display properly with this setup.

 

Indicators

The first indicator in the 852 field is extremely important in Alma and Primo VE. Call numbers are indexed according to the first indicator. For instance, if an LC call number has an indicator that says it's a Dewey Decimal call number, you will only be able to find it in a Dewey search.

 First Indicator   Shelving Scheme   Holdings Example 
 #  No information provided  N/A
 0  Library of Congress (LC) classification  $h Z696.U4 $i C47 2016
 1  Dewey Decimal classification (DDC)  $h 025.431
 2  National Library of Medicine (NLM) classification  $h WB 369.5.E2
 3  Superintendent of Documents (SuDoc) classification   $h GP 3.29:P 88/993
 4  Shelving control number  $j Mic77-3276
 5  Title  $l NYT MAG
 6  Shelved separately  
 7  Source specified in subfield $2  $h PY F532.17/4 $2 padocs 
 8  Other scheme  $h Fic $i Adams

 

Call Numbers

The most common problem with call numbers is erroneous spacing. Example:

ML 416 .S33 A4 1991

ML416.S33 A4 1991

 

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Answered By:
Kristen Fredericksen
Last Updated:
2025-05-05
Views:
49
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