Church Library Ministry Classification & Subject Cataloging

CHURCH LIBRARY MINISTRY SUBJECT CATALOGING:

• READ/CONFERENCE: Read pages 59–70 in the Church Library Ministry Information Service. Or click here. Examine the latest copy in your library of Sears List of Subject Headings if you have one, especially for the “List of Canceled and Replacement Headings,” “List of Subdivisions Provided for in the Sears List,” and the organization of the “Sears List of Subject Headings.” AND/OR participate in an in-depth conference on Classification and Subject Cataloging.

• INTERVIEW three librarians including a school or public librarian with specific questions about subject headings used in their particular libraries. At least one of those libraries should be automated and locating some of their classifying and cataloging information from the Internet.

• DEVELOP a plan to incorporate the process of determining subject headings into the previously written classification procedures. (See Church Library Classification course). Include the following:

1. A list of tools needed and develop worksheets with practice exercises for classification and subject cataloging.
2. Books in all age groups in at least five subject areas.
3. Exercises to include one of each of the following: book in a series, Bible, board book, missionary biography, O. T. biography, devotional book, bound-with book, DVD, and a kit.
4. Assign Dewey Decimal Classification numbers and subject headings for each by using pages 56 – 57 in Church Library Ministry Information Service and/or the list of subject headings based on the 20th edition of the Sears List of Subject Headings  to assist in creating complete call numbers. You may use A Classification System for Church Libraries, Revised Edition and/or your latest copy of Dewey Decimal Classification along with your latest copy of Sears List of Subject Headings .

• IMPLEMENT the written procedures and examine what has already been processed.

• EVALUATE your work with another library team member who will be helping with classification and subject cataloging. When you complete your evaluation and make the necessary changes in the procedure, share how changes in the subject headings procedures are helping the library on the CLN's The Circle.