
Understanding SuDoc Classification Numbers
The Superintendent of Documents uses an alpha/numeric classification system which assigns a SuDoc number to each publication. This system classifies each document by an institutional author (Congress or a government department, agency or commission), not by subject. A SuDoc number is composed of two major parts divided by the colon: the stem, which identifies the government department or agency (the author) that issued the publication and after the colon a book number which is specific to that document.
The following example for SuDoc number I 29.9/5: 156 illustrates this system.
|
I |
= |
Department of the Interior |
|
29 |
= |
National Parks |
9 |
= |
bibliographies and lists (type of document e.g. an annual report, newsletter, etc. ) |
|
5 |
= |
type of bibliography |
|
156 |
= |
the book number |
SuDoc numbers beginning with the letters A - T identify the executive department or agency that published the document. Therefore, A is for Agriculture, S is for the State Department. etc. The letters X and Y, however, identify documents pertaining to Congress, such as hearings and reports. An example is Y 4.J 89/2 : F/31/6.
Quick Tips:
Ask a reference librarian:
The size of the collection combined with the shelving available on the C floor has caused some filing irregularities. If you cannot find a document, please ask a reference librarian for assistance.
Tutorials:
For the curious student who wishes to learns even more about SuDoc numbers.
Learning SuDoc Call Numbers: An interactive tutorial designed by Becky Fox at Michigan State University.
GODORT: Gov Docs Online Tutorial: A Government Documents Tutorial
Today's Hours
Monday, 08-Sep-08