The Dewey system of classification uses numbers which are arranged into 10 broad areas of knowledge running from 0 - 900. The system allows us to group together books that are in the same subject area, making it easier for you to find items that may be relevant to your area of study. Below is a broad outline the Dewey system and how it relates our collection in the library. Books with numbers 700-999 are located on the second floor. If you look up a book on the catalogue and it has a location number preceded by the word 'oversize' then you should look in one of these separate sequences.
Oversize books have a 'Q' on their spine label.
Ask at an enquiry desk or check on RISB floorplans if you are unsure about the location of the oversize books. Some books which are valuable, rare or fragile are kept in Showcases. If Showcase appears in the location of a book on the catalogue, please ask for it at the 2nd floor enquiry desk. You will need your library card, as all Showcase books are issued on your card, even when they are for reference use in the library. Folio and Elephant sized books These are books which are larger than oversize.