Library Terminology

The following is a list of common terms you may come across when interacting with library resources and services. Use this information to familiarize yourself with each of these terms.

Call Number – An alphanumeric character assigned to each book based on its subject so that books can be easily found on the shelves; Oxford College uses the Dewey Decimal system.

Catalog – The tool that allows you to search for books and other items at Emory’s Libraries. Our catalog is called Library Search.

Information Desk (Info Desk) – The Info Desk is where you can check out books and other materials, renew books, borrow reserve items, and ask questions or get research help.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) – A free service that allows you to borrow books and other items from libraries around the world.

Research Consultation – One-on-one appointments with a librarian generally lasting about 30 minutes; these appointments are more in-depth than the usual questions asked at the Info Desk and can cover a variety of topics such as how to get started developing a topic, how to use a particular database, and more.

Research Guide – The best resources on a subject or class topic to help you with your research.

Reserves – Materials--such as required textbooks and other readings--for class that are held behind the Info Desk and arranged by class. These materials can be checked out for 3 hours at a time, and if they are returned late accrue a fine of $1/hour.

Stacks – The shelves where the books are located on the first and second floor.