Abstract: The method and apparatus for color coding library books and/or shelved media system that utilizes a plurality of color coded labels. Each label has a number of bands of horizontally disposed colors and each color in the color band is assigned to a unique letter, or number, forming part of the alpha-numeric library code and/or shelved media system. Each label further includes a removable spacing tab along its lower edge which, when the label is mounted to the designated book, the bottom edge of the removable spacing tab is aligned with the bottom edge of the spine of the book. Upon affixing the label to the book or the media case, the removable spacing tab is separated from the label by a horizontal separation joint, thereby aligning the bottom edge of the remaining portion of the label at a fixed position relative to the bottom of the book.