Subject Signs on the Stacks at Wascana

Comment from a Wascana Student: As I see in other libraries, there are signs in every aisle that show you which kind of books there are. But I could not see any here, except some letters and numbers. For example, how can I find a book about history, ESL, etc., without asking? Please write every subject near them. Thank-you.

Thank-you for your comment. You are right – many libraries, usually public libraries, have signs that identify materials by subject (music, computers, health, etc). These libraries organize their material by the Dewey Decimal System. At SIAST Libraries, we use a classification system called the Library of Congress Subject Headings to organize our information. This gives us the ability to have a more detailed collection of library materials that can suit the specific needs of the very different programs at SIAST. Unfortunately, this means that library materials are often scattered throughout our shelves because one item can relate to a number of different topics. The letters and numbers that you see at the end of each row indicate which books are on the shelves based on their classification code.

To look for books on a particular subject, you can use our online catalogue which is available under “Find Books and More” from the library website (www.siast.sk.ca/libraries). Here you can look for books, videos, and electronic books on a variety of subjects, searched by keyword, title or author.

You can also look at our “Resources by Program” section on the website, which will direct you to useful library materials by the SIAST Program you are enrolled in. We have a guide for every program offered at SIAST.

Our staff is always happy to help you find library materials. Stop by the “Ask Us!” desk and we will help you search the online catalogue or give you ideas on where to look on our shelves for the information you need. We continue to look for ways to help students and instructors find library items quickly and easily.

Susan Shepley
Librarian, Wascana Campus Library

Signs at Wascana

Comment: “More signs telling others where places are, eg. Learning Assistance.”

Thanks for your suggestion. The library is always looking for ways that we can improve the interior space, so we’ll definitely keep it in mind. We realize that finding where Learning Assistance is in the library could be confusing, but you can always ask – we’re a pretty friendly bunch! Also, I passed along your suggestion to Learning Assistance and they’re looking into the idea as well.

Robin Canham, Librarian, Wascana Library