Overview of Common Terms
Library Terminology
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.