Print spine labels

Spine labels show the call number or shelving identifier on the spine of each book. Useful for libraries that organize by Dewey, Library of Congress, or a custom scheme.

Where

Tools → Print Spine Labels

Generating call numbers

Shelfwise can auto-generate a simple call number from genre + author's last name + first letter of title. For example:

• "FI AUS P" — Fiction / Austen / Pride and Prejudice
• "BI ANG M" — Biography / Angelou / Maya
• "HI MCC C" — History / McCullough / Civil War

To override, edit the book → Call Number → enter your own.

Layout options

• Single-line label (most common) — fits Dewey decimals or a short alpha code
• Two-line label — for longer call numbers or library prefixes
• With or without the book title beneath the call number

Label material

• 1×2.625" labels (Avery 5160 compatible) work for most books
• For thinner spines, 0.5×1" labels (Avery 5167) are better
• Apply 1 inch from the bottom of the spine

Lamination

Apply a strip of clear book tape over each spine label to protect it from wear. Demco, Brodart, and library suppliers carry pre-cut spine label protectors.

Reprinting

If a spine label peels or you've recatalogued a book:

• Tools → Print Spine Labels → Selected books → pick the book
• Reprint and apply

No call numbers?

If your library doesn't use call numbers, skip spine labels entirely. Patrons can find books via the catalogue search.