I have read books on starting a new library. Most recommend the Dewey Decimal classification.
I did see one library that advocated the easiest way possible for the patrons. Simply sort by fiction and non-fiction then shelve by authors last name. Suggestions please.
Betty
Replies
that would work for a short while If your library grows to any size, it will become difficult for you to keep up with everything I recommend the Dewey Decimal system We are currently only using the part that relates to topics for our church library and have modified it slightly to accommodate our specific needs.
There is an condensed form of The Dewey Classification that is really easy to use,"A classification System for church Libraries" you can order it from Lifeway.com. There will be classes on the system at the Annual Library Conference at Shocco Springs Conf. Center in Alabama that begins on Monday Sept. 19. There will be classes on EVERYTHING you will need to know to begin a great Library Ministry. We would love to have you. Check under Events on this network for full details.
Betty, the best way is to shelve the non-fiction books by numbers using the Dewey Decimal System for classifying books and the fiction in alphabetical order by author's last name. Children's books should be: CE for children's fiction, C numbers for non-fiction. This is ages birth through age 12. For ages 13-fifth grade, use JF for fiction, F numbers for non-fiction. B and the first three letters of the biographee's name is usually used for biographies:
B
Lin for a book about Lincoln. CB for children and JB for juveniles. With the number of libraries available online, it is easy to determine the Dewey number for a book. Also using the Dewey number groups books by subject, so it is easy for your patrons to browse the shelves and find several books about the same topic.
Also when shelving, you should go from left to right, one section at a time, like pages in a book. Hope this helps. Send me an e-mail if you want more info.