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Cape Breton Language Centre & the CBU Library

Novanet

Search Novanet to find books, e-books, articles, and much more!  Novanet is your first place to search for books. Use the filters located to the left of the screen to locate:

  • Books (See filter: Resource Type)
  • Cape Breton University Library (See filter: Library)
  • Print Books only (See filter: Location and select "General Collection on Second Floor")
  • Change publication date (See filter: Creation Date)

Locating the Library's Print Books (Call Numbers)

Locating Print Books 

What is a call number?  Each print library book has a call number acting as an address telling you where the book can be found in the library. The call number is usually found on the spine of the book.

How do you read a call number?  The CBU Library uses the Library of Congress Classification System to arrange books on shelves by subject. In the image below, the first section of the call number (LB) represents the subject; the letter and decimal (.C) represents the author's last name. The last section (1991) is often the date of publication.

Why is this important to know?  Knowing how to locate books using call numbers will save you time. Also, because books are shelved by subject, you'll be able to find other helpful books by browsing the area.  Each shelving unit in the Cape Breton University Library has a sign detailing the range of call numbers you can expect to see in a row.

Learn more about call numbers.