LC Call Numbers - Space Lower Space

What is this?

One pattern that can show up in LC call numbers in catalogs is a space followed by a lowercase letter followed by another space, like this:

  • SH344 b .B69 1984
  • S599.6.I6 i A8 1962
  • H62 .H370 v 122 1964
  • BD418.3 .G63 1996 x gift

Why is this trouble?

This is often an indicator that the call number contains a subfield code without a delimiter. If the code makes it onto the book label, it can cause confusion for shelving. Which of these call numbers comes first? 

SH     SH
344    344
b      .B44
.B69   1988
1984

If the subfield was for notes (like $x or $z), it can cause those notes to appear as part of the call number in the catalog and possibly on the spine label.

A letter like this may also be part of enumeration (like v. or t.) that does not have the dot next to it. If the enumeration is not prominent on the book spine itself, it may cause inconsistent shelving. Which of these call numbers comes first? 

H       H
62      62
.H370   .H370
v       v.1
122     1950
1964

Exceptions

I don't know of any well-formed call numbers matching this pattern.

How to Find

If you are in Alma, there is an analysis to search for this issue in the "Looking for Trouble" folder. Go to the "LC Call Numbers" folder and look for the "Space Lower Space" analysis.

If you can search or filter your call numbers by regular expression, use the expression / [a-z] /.