Page 7 - DLIS103_LIBRARY_CLASSIFICATION_AND_CATALOGUING_THEORY

Library Classification and Cataloguing Theory

Notes classification” also covers classification used in other kinds of bibliographic databases). It goes
hand in hand with library (descriptive) cataloging under the rubric of cataloging and classification,
sometimes grouped together as technical services. The library professional who engages in the
process of cataloging and classifying library materials is called a cataloguer or catalog librarian.
Library classification systems are one of the two tools used to facilitate subject access. The other
consists of alphabetical indexing languages such as Thesauri and Subject Headings systems.
Library classification is a work consists of two steps. Firstly, the “about ness” of the material is
ascertained. Next, a call number (essentially a book’s address) based on the classification system in
use at the particular library will be assigned to the work using the notation of the system.
It is important to note that unlike subject heading or thesauri where multiple terms can be assigned
to the same work, in library classification systems, each work can only be placed in one class. This
is due to shelving purposes: A book can have only one physical place. However, in classified
catalogues one may have main entries as well as added entries.

Notes Most classification systems like the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and Library
of Congress classification also add a cutter number to each work which adds a code for the
author of the work.

1.2 Definitions

1. Margaret Mann says, Classification is the act of arranging things according to their like-
ness and unlikeness. She further says, It is a sorting or grouping of things.
2. According to Richardson, Classification is putting together like things.
3. Berwick Sayers defines library Classification as The arrangement of books on shelves or
description of them, in a manner which is the most useful to those who read.
4. New Encyclopedias Britannica defines library classification as a system of arrangement
adopted by a library to enable patrons to find its material quickly and easily.
From these definitions it becomes clear that the arrangement of documents in a systematic way is
called classification. In library classification we deal with documents with the sole purpose of
arranging them in the most helpful and permanent sequence. Library classification thus aims at
providing formal access to documents.

1.3 Need and Purpose

Let us deliberate upon some points that elaborate the need and purpose of Library Classification.
(i) Helpful Sequence: The basic purpose of any library classification should be to arrange the
documents in a method most convenient to the users and to the library staff. The docu-
ments should be arranged in classes, and based on the mutual relations between them. This
would bring together closely related classes. In other words, related documents would be
grouped in close proximity, the basic idea being that like classes are brought together and
unlike classes are separated.
(ii) Correct Replacement: Documents after being taken out from shelves by the users or by the
library staff should, after being used, be replaced in their proper places. It is essential that
library classification should enable the correct replacement of documents, after these have
been returned from use. This would require a mechanized arrangement, which has been
discussed in the next section.
(iii) Mechanized Arrangement: If it is decided that a particular arrangement is suitable then,
ordinarily, it should not be changed. The sequence should be determined once for all, so
that one does not have to re-determine the sequence of documents again when these are
returned after being borrowed, or for the interpolation of new documents in their correct
places. This is done by allocating notation, which expresses order. Thus, it becomes

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