In the FamilySearch Catalog on FamilySearch, the term "call number" refers specifically to numbers on books, maps, periodicals, and other printed materials. The identification numbers for microfilms are called "film numbers." Digital records have an "Image Group Number," which is also called a "DGS number."
Call numbers are based on the Dewey Decimal Classification. The FamilySearch Library uses a modification of the Dewey Decimal Classification for items about a place or for records from a place.
For example, the call number could be 944.22 R2s. 944.22 represents the Calvados department of France. R2 indicates that the topic is land and property. The "s" separates this item from other items about the same topic.
Knowing an item's call number can help you find it at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States. On a book label, most call numbers are on 2 or more lines. The first 2 lines provide the information that allows you to find the book on the shelves. The other lines indicate versions and copies of the work. A staff member or volunteer at the library will be happy to help you find an item.
Books, maps, periodicals, and other printed materials at the FamilySearch Library cannot be checked out. Nor do they circulate to other facilities. If you cannot visit the library in person, you might find a digital copy of a book in the FamilySearch Digital Library. You can also check OCLC WorldCat to see if another library has it.
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