Library Assistant how-to
How to Shelve Books by Dewey Decimal
Correct shelving lets people find books.
Quick answer
Correct shelving lets people find books. In short: sort; read; treat, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Sort the cart by call number.
Read numbers left to right.
Treat decimals digit by digit.
Then sort by author letters.
Shelve carefully.
Shelf-read nearby.
Safety reminders for library assistants
- Lift and push carts safely
- Follow security procedures
- Protect patron privacy
- Know emergency exits
Key terms
Circulation · Call number · Dewey Decimal · Hold · Interlibrary loan · Patron: see the full library assistant glossary.