The term "call number" is commonly used in libraries, but there are other words that can be used to describe the same thing. One of the most common alternatives is "shelf number." This refers to the number or combination of letters and numbers that helps library staff members locate a book on the shelf. Another synonym for "call number" is "book number," which is used in some libraries to describe the same thing. A third possible term is "classification number," which refers to the system of organization used to group books by subject matter. Whatever you call it, the call number (or whatever you choose to call it) is an essential tool for finding books in a library.