Buzz
For centuries, libraries have played a vital role in providing public access to information. However, large collections often present significant challenges: searching for a specific book can be both difficult and time-consuming. To address this issue, Melvil Dewey invented the Dewey Decimal System (DCC), which revolutionized how books are organized. This system has spread widely, making the lives of librarians much easier. Despite its usefulness, it is often complicated, and those who are not librarians may not be familiar with it. This article will guide you through the various functions of the DCC and help you gain a better understanding of it.
Steps
Searching for a Specific Book
Look for your book in the library's card catalog. The system might be computerized by now. If you're having trouble, ask the librarian for assistance or request their help in locating the book.
- The Dewey Decimal System is primarily used for classifying non-fiction books. It organizes books by subject, ranging from genetics to Victorian England to astronomy.
Kim Gillingham, MA
Information specialist and librarian
Information specialist and librarian
Have you ever wondered why the Dewey Decimal System exists? Kim Gillingham, a retired librarian, explains: "The Dewey Decimal System is a way to find books on various scientific topics – based on their subject matter. You can use it to locate books by matching numbers with the appropriate subject on the shelves."
Start by noting the number from the book's description. The number will consist of three digits or more. Write down this number along with the author's last name before you begin your search.
Go to the bookshelves. Scan the spines of books to find shelves with numbers matching the first few digits of the book you're looking for. Then, locate books with matching second digits, and so on. Here's an example:
- Suppose you're searching for a book with the Dewey Decimal number 319.21.
- Look for a shelf that could contain the number 319, temporarily ignoring the decimal portion. For instance, a shelf labeled "300.2–340.99" might be the right one since 319 falls between 300 and 400.
- Go down that shelf and check the spines of the books until you spot books starting with the number 319.
- Among the books starting with 319, locate the one you're seeking. The books are organized by decimal value, so 319.21 will be found between 319.20 and 319.22.
Look for a label that matches both the number and the author's last name. There may be multiple books with the same Dewey Decimal number, so make sure to check the author's name to confirm you've found the right one.
Browse and categorize
Learn the 10 general content categories. Melvil Dewey originally created 10 broad categories into which most books are classified. These 10 areas are listed below, along with their corresponding numbers:
- 000 - Computer science, information, and general works
- 100 - Philosophy and psychology
- 200 - Religion
- 300 - Social sciences
- 400 - Language
- 500 - Science
- 600 - Technology
- 700 - The arts and recreation
- 800 - Literature
- 900 - History and geography
Understand the subclasses and divisions. Each of the 10 categories has 99 subclasses, which represent more specific types within the larger categories. The decimal numbers are used to indicate even more precise classifications, becoming increasingly detailed. Here’s an example of this classification system:
- 500 Natural sciences and mathematics
- 590 Zoology
- 595 Arthropods
- 595.7 Insects
- 595.78 Moths
- 595.789 Butterflies
Browse using the system. The Dewey Decimal System is extremely helpful when browsing. If you're looking for books on ethics, you can head to 170. Once you're there, you can scan the shelves to find books on the specific ethical topics that interest you. This method is certainly more convenient than sorting books alphabetically, where you might find books about turtles right next to books on political upheaval.
Search online to explore the categories. If the library is large and you don’t want to spend the entire day browsing books on the arts, you can check online guides for the categories, subclasses, and divisions. Websites with guides on the Dewey Decimal System include OCLC, University of Illinois, IPL.
Suggestions
- Don't hesitate to ask a librarian for help in locating a book. Most librarians are more than happy to guide you in the right direction.
- If you can’t recall the exact title of a book, ask a reference librarian. Reference librarians are skilled at searching databases for information.
- Many libraries are arranged with lower numbers near the entrance and higher numbers further inside.
- The Library of Congress has developed its own classification system, which is better suited for large collections. This system is commonly referred to as “LC” or “LOC.”
- If you are cataloging books for a library or bookstore, you may need a deeper understanding of this system. The following resources can be useful:
- If you're unsure how to classify a book with an unusual subject, refer to the official introduction, manual, and glossary.
- Keep your collection updated by following the regular updates of the Dewey Decimal System or the less formal Dewey blog.
