Understanding Shelfmarks

The Library’s collection is divided into broad subject areas (e.g. History, Literature, and Topography) and then into smaller areas, arranged alphabetically. Within each section, books are generally arranged by author name, but edited titles are filed under the book title instead. Check the catalogue record for the ‘shelved under’ information. 

In order to make the most effective use of space, the collection is also shelved by size. Check the end of shelfmarks for the notations 4to. (Quarto), Folio, and Folio Extra Large, which may indicate a different place to look for the books.

Example of how a performing arts volume appears in the catalogue.

Above is an example of a book record from the catalogue. Here you can see that the book is available (i.e. on the shelf) in the Science and Miscellaneous section (S.), in the subsection for Dancing, and then under author Christiansen.

Books may be requested and put aside ready for collection, but we would always encourage members to browse the shelves and discover books serendipitously. Items from the Library’s Special Collections cannot be borrowed but may be consulted in the Library under supervised conditions, given 72 hours’ notice.

The following sections of this guide describe various shelfmarks which can be used as points of access to the Library’s performing arts collection. 