How can you organize different library materials?

1 Classification schemes

One of the most important ways to organize library materials is by using a classification scheme, which is a system of assigning numbers or letters to each item based on its subject, category, or format. A classification scheme helps you group similar items together on the shelves and in the catalog, and also helps you locate an item by its call number. Some of the most widely used classification schemes in libraries are the Dewey Decimal System, the Library of Congress Classification, and the Universal Decimal Classification.

2 Cataloging standards

Another way to organize library materials is by using cataloging standards, which are rules and guidelines for creating and maintaining bibliographic records for each item. A bibliographic record is a description of an item that includes information such as its title, author, publisher, edition, date, ISBN, and subject headings. Cataloging standards help you ensure that the records are accurate, consistent, and compatible with other libraries and databases. Some of the most common cataloging standards in libraries are the Resource Description and Access (RDA), the Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules (AACR2), and the MARC 21 format.

3 Subject headings

A third way to organize library materials is by using subject headings, which are words or phrases that describe the main topics or themes of an item. Subject headings help you index and search for items by their content, rather than by their title or author. Subject headings also help you narrow or broaden your search results by using subheadings, cross-references, and synonyms. Some of the most popular subject heading systems in libraries are the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), the Sears List of Subject Headings, and the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH).

4 Shelf arrangement

A fourth way to organize library materials is by using shelf arrangement, which is the physical placement of items on the shelves according to their call numbers, formats, or collections. Shelf arrangement helps you display and store the items in a logical and accessible way, and also helps you maintain the order and condition of the items. Some of the factors that affect shelf arrangement in libraries are the size and shape of the items, the space and layout of the shelves, the frequency and demand of the items, and the security and preservation of the items.

5 Labeling and signage

A fifth way to organize library materials is by using labeling and signage, which are visual aids that help you identify and locate the items on the shelves and in the library. Labeling and signage help you mark the items with their call numbers, formats, or collections, and also help you guide the users to the right sections, levels, or areas of the library. Some of the types of labeling and signage that you can use in libraries are spine labels, bookends, shelf guides, maps, posters, and banners.

6 Inventory and weeding

A sixth way to organize library materials is by using inventory and weeding, which are processes of checking and updating the items in the library. Inventory is the act of verifying the presence and accuracy of the items on the shelves and in the catalog, and correcting any errors or discrepancies. Weeding is the act of removing the items that are outdated, damaged, duplicated, or no longer relevant or useful. Inventory and weeding help you ensure that the library materials are current, reliable, and in good condition, and also help you free up space and resources for new or more popular items.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?