DEFINITION OF LIBRARY CLASSIFICATION
Overview
- Bhattacharya, Ganesh; Ranganathan, Shri Radha (1974). "From knowledge classification to library classification". In Wojciechowski, Jerzy A. (ed.). Ottawa Conference on the Conceptual Basis of the Classification of Knowledge, 1971. Munich: Verlag Dokumentation. pp. 119–143.
- ^ Bliss, Henry Evelyn (1933). The organization of knowledge in libraries. New York: H. W. Wilson.
NOTATION:
In a library categorisation system, subjects and classes are represented by a set of symbols and numbers called notation. By arranging books with the same subject in a particular sequence on the same shelf, notation aids in library organisation.
QUALITIES OF GOOD NOTATION:
- A good notation system should be clear and unambiguous.
- The notation should be as simple as possible while still being comprehensive. It should avoid unnecessary complexity, making it easy to learn and apply.
- Consistency in notation is essential. The same symbol or code should always represent the same concept or category. This consistency helps users navigate and understand the system without needing to remember exceptions.
- The notation should be concise.
- A good notation system should provide precise information.
- A good notation should have flexibility.
- A notation system should have universal applicability, especially in a global context.
OPTAC DEVICE:
A piece of technology called the OPTAC device helps classify library items using automated, optical procedures, which improves material organisation and lessens the workload for library employees.
Example:
1. Optical Character Recognition (OCR).
2. Barcode scanner, Software like KOHA, Ex LIBRIS Alma.
3. DDC.
4. OCLC’s World cat.
SECTOR DEVICE:
A sector device is a system or instrument that helps organise and organise library items, especially when it comes to grouping them into categories or subject areas.
EXAMPLE:
DDC
\EMPTY digit:
A classification number's "empty digit" is a vacant space that denotes a degree of organisation or specificity, frequently to allow for upcoming additions or classes.
For instance, 510 might stand for mathematics and 500 for science (in a broad sense). In order to accommodate future system development, a book that is within the category of mathematics but does not concentrate on a specific subfield may be categorised as 510.0 or 510.00, with the extra digits left unfilled.
MNEMONICS:
Mnemonics are strategies or elements incorporated into a categorisation system that facilitate application, comprehension, and memorisation of the system's structure. The framework of categorisation schemes, such the Library of Congress categorisation (LCC) or the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), frequently incorporates these mnemonic devices.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF MNEMONICS:
1. Alphabetical Mnemonics
Using specific letters that hint at the subject or its name.
Example (LCC):
"P" for Language and Literature (think Poetry).
"Q" for Science (think Quantum physics).
"M" for Music.
2. Numerical Mnemonics
Using numbers that align logically with the subject's hierarchy or progression.
Example (DDC):
500: Sciences (General Science).
510: Mathematics (logical progression as a subfield of science).
520: Astronomy (a physical science closely related to mathematics).
3. Subject Mnemonics
Using symbols or patterns in codes to reflect the subject matter.
Example (DDC):
796 for Sports and Recreation under 700 (Arts), suggesting recreational activities as a form of art.
641 for Food and Drink under 600 (Technology), aligning food preparation with practical arts.
4. Structural Mnemonics
Using consistent hierarchies and subdivisions that reflect relationships between topics.
Example (DDC):
900: History
930: Ancient History
940: European History
950: Asian History
This structure shows geographic and chronological relationships.
5. Language Mnemonics
Using patterns to represent specific languages or literary works.
Example (DDC):
800: Literature
810: American Literature
820: English Literature
830: German Literature
The last digit often corresponds to the language family.
6. Geographic Mnemonics
Codes associated with specific locations or regions.
Example (DDC):
917: Geography and Travel of North America.
914: Geography and Travel of Europe.
The numbers align with regions in the world.
7. Author Mnemonics
Codes or letters represent authors, making it easier to organize their works.
Example (LCC):
PR 4568 .D52: For Charles Dickens.
"PR" stands for English Literature.
"D" in the cutter number suggests Dickens.
8. Chronological Mnemonics
Using numbers to represent time periods in history or development stages.
Example (DDC):
940.1 For Medieval European History.
940.5 For World War II History.
9. Biographical Mnemonics
Using classifications to represent specific individuals or groups.
Example (LCC):
E 185: African American History.
"E" relates to U.S. History, with subdivisions for demographic groups.
EMPTYING DIGIT:
Emptying digit in library classification refers to the intentional use of a vacant digit in a classification number to allow for future expansion or for structural purposes. This approach provides flexibility and room for additional subdivisions without disrupting the existing classification structure.