Call numbers and collating sequences

Abstract

Call numbers traditionally used to implement shelf order in libraries are often amenable to machine sequencing, since they involve collating sequences which are sufficiently coherent for users and library staff to learn. However, these collating sequences usually do not match those implemented in computer systems, so that special programs to transform the call numbers into machine fileable sequences are necessary if the machines are to display the shelf order in a particular library. Two common machine collating sequences and their relations with some of the properties of Dewey/Cutter call numbers are briefly examined and a transformation procedure outlined.