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Library Classification and Cataloguing Theory Jovita Kaur, Lovely Professional University

Notes Unit 4: Classification Theory

CONTENTS
Objectives
Introduction
4.1. Canons of Ranganathan Theory
4.2. Summary
4.3. Keywords
4.4. Review Questions
4.5. Further Readings

Objectives
After studying this unit, you will be able to:
Discuss about the general theory of library classification
Understand the canons of Ranganathan Theory.

Introduction
In this Unit, an attempt has been made to present in brief the general theory of library classification.
A theory refers to an organized set of principles, which provide the basis for further investigation
into, and the development of a subject. It explains existing phenomena. A theory goes through the
process of development from time to time and is constantly changing and improving. This is
equally true with the development of the theory of library classification.
There are two distinct stages in the development of the general theory of library classification. In
stage-1, we notice the emergence of the descriptive theory distilled out of the past practices in
designing schemes of library classification and their use. In stage-2, on the other hand, we find the
development of a dynamic theory for guidance in designing schemes with a greater degree of
detail.

S.R. Ranganathan

S.R. Ranganathan was instrumental in revolutionizing the Theory of Classification. He propounded
certain fundamental ideas and concepts, which are the basis for the development of the Theory of
Classification. 141- Consistently advocated that library classification should conform to the Laws
of Library Science. He worked vigorously towards the most helpful regarding sequence of classes
in a scheme of classification based on the concept of Facet Analysis and Fundamental Categories.
He totally rejected the earlier schemes, based purely on enumeration. His laws, canons and principles
of library classification have been presented in his Prolegomena to Library Classification. This is
regarded as one of the seminal works on the Theory of Library Classification.
Mapping of Universe of Knowledge: Ranganathan visualised the problem of transforming the
multi-dimensional universe of knowledge into a one-dimensional one. This was the fundamental
and perennial problem faced by the classification it’s in the design of schemes of classification. To
meet this problem squarely, Ranganathan formulated the General Theory of Classification, which
was guided by Basic Laws, Laws of Library Science, Canons, Principles and Postulates. With the
help of these laws, canons and principles, the mapping of the universe of knowledge in a scheme
of classification could be successfully represented. Details of these laws are summarized in the
following pages.

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