DDC and LCC: Key Issues and Challenges in Using Popular Classification Schemes
DDC and LCC: Key Issues and Challenges in Using Popular Classification Schemes
Classification is the process of sorting or arranging information into categories as defined by classification schemes such as the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and Library Congress Classification (LCC). These cataloging systems are methods on how to organize knowledge using letters and numbers (Classification). While librarians' experiences in the use of both cataloging systems have been generally positive in the beginning, it is not without problems, especially now that the digital age has arrived and more children are becoming interested in reading books.
For instance, children on the 1st to 3rd grades find difficulty locating the books they need because the DDC makes use of the decimal system, whereas these children learn about decimals in 4th grade. In addition, children are more interested in the content of the books, especially picture books, but when locating for books that might interest them, they have to deal with names of authors they don’t even know (Kaplan et al.). Another problem is that not all people who use libraries understand the meanings of the numbers and letters found on the labels, thus, instead of relying upon themselves to locate the books they need, users always end up asking for specific instructions on how to find the books. Librarians or those who are tasked to catalog information cannot act as mind readers or fortune-tellers, especially when the collection of information begins to grow (Shirky). Finally, with more information becoming available on the internet, enforcing a strategic classification system is necessary to include web resources when it comes to understanding how to classify information.
As solutions, the system has to be child-centered, meaning, the system must take into consideration whether small children will be able to adapt the classification method or not. If a child will not learn independence in terms of locating the information or book he or she needs, then it is not an effective method of classification. The system must be easily understood not only by librarians, but also by all possible library users. Lastly, it must be a system that can "evolve" in time, if there is a need to adjust the method or the collection of information grows (Kaplan et al.)
References
Classification. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://lili.org/forlibs/ce/sable/course4/sec4-classification-11.htm
Kaplan, T.B., Dolloff, A. K., Giffard, S., & Still-Schiff, J. (2012). Are Dewey's days numbered? Libraries nationwide are ditching the old classification system. School Library Journal. Retrieved from http://www.slj.com/2012/09/librarians/are-deweys-days-numbered-libraries-across-the-country-are-giving-the-old-classification-system-the-heave-ho-heres-one-schools-story/
Shirky, C. (2005). Ontology is overrated: Categories, links, and tags. Clay Shirky's Writings About the Internet. Retrieved from http://www.shirky.com/writings/ontology_overrated.html
