Library Classification System
A simple guide to help students, researchers and readers understand how books are arranged in the Library using the Dewey Decimal Classification system, with special attention to DDC 23 and BUSL subject areas.
How books are arranged on Library shelves.
The Library uses subject-based classification to arrange materials so that books on the same or related subjects can be found together. The Dewey Decimal Classification system divides knowledge into ten main classes from 000 to 900.
This page is a user-friendly guide. For the exact shelf location of a book, always check the OPAC record and note the full call number printed on the spine label.
How to read a call number
A call number works like an address for a book. It tells you the subject area, author mark and shelf order.
DDC 23 main subject classes.
Use this table as a quick shelf guide. Decimal numbers become more specific as the subject becomes more specific.
Computer Science, Information & General Works
Useful for information technology, computer science, digital resources, bibliographies, library guides, encyclopedias and general reference works.
Philosophy & Psychology
Used for philosophy, logic, ethics, psychology, counselling and works on the mind when the treatment is mainly philosophical or psychological.
Religion
The most important class for Buddhist studies collections. Buddhism is arranged mainly within the 294.3 area and its subdivisions.
Social Sciences
Used for sociology, education, social issues, public administration, law, economics and related social science materials.
Language
Used for language study, grammar, linguistics, dictionaries and language learning materials.
Science
Used for natural sciences and mathematics. This class is less central to BUSL but may support general academic study.
Technology & Applied Sciences
Used for applied sciences, management, health, medicine, agriculture and practical professional fields.
Arts & Recreation
Used for fine arts, sculpture, painting, architecture, music, performance and cultural artistic studies.
Literature
Used for literary works, poetry, drama, criticism and literary history. Language books go in 400; literary texts usually go in 800.
History, Geography & Archaeology
Used for history, archaeology, geography, travel, heritage and civilization studies.
Where our university subjects usually appear.
This guide connects common BUSL subject areas with likely DDC shelf areas. Exact classification may vary depending on the content and treatment of each book.
Buddhist Studies
Use mainly for Buddhism, Buddhist doctrine, Tripitaka studies, Buddhist civilization, Buddhist ethics and Buddhist religious practice.
Tripitaka Studies
Class according to the specific Buddhist canonical text, doctrine or commentary. Use the OPAC call number for exact shelf location.
Buddhist Philosophy
Use 100 when the work is mainly philosophy. Use 200 / Buddhism when the work is mainly Buddhist doctrine or religious interpretation.
Pali Language & Literature
Use 400 for Pali grammar and language study. Use 800 when the focus is literature. Buddhist canonical texts may be placed under 200.
Sanskrit, Sinhala & English
Language learning, grammar and linguistics usually go in 400. Literary works and literary criticism usually go in 800.
Psychology & Counselling
Use psychology numbers for general psychology and counselling. Buddhist Psychology may be classed under Buddhism when the treatment is religious.
Library & Information Science
Use for librarianship, cataloguing, classification, reference services, library management and information organization.
Education Science
Use for education theory, teaching, school management, educational psychology, measurement and evaluation.
Sociology
Use for society, social systems, social research, social problems and Buddhism in relation to society.
Archaeology & Heritage Management
Use for archaeology, ancient civilization, heritage, monuments, historical sites and cultural preservation.
History
Use for Sri Lankan history, Indian history, European history, religious history and historical studies.
Information Technology
Use for computer science, computer applications, digital libraries, databases and communication technology.
Finding a book in four steps.
Search the OPAC
Search by title, author, subject or keyword and open the correct record.
Write down the call number
Copy the full call number exactly, including decimal numbers and author marks.
Go to the correct DDC section
Find the shelf range, such as 200 Religion, 400 Language or 900 History.
Read numbers from left to right
Books are arranged numerically first, then by decimal value and author mark.
Important note for users
Some books may appear in more than one possible DDC area. For example, Buddhist Psychology may be placed with Buddhism or Psychology depending on the main treatment of the book. Always follow the OPAC call number and ask Library staff when you are unsure.