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LIS Notes #06 - Different Classification Schemes

Classification schemes are essential tools in Library and Information Science for organizing and arranging books, documents, and other resources in a systematic way. They help users locate materials efficiently and support libraries in managing their collections.

1. Major Classification Schemes

1.1 Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)

  • Developed by: Melvil Dewey in 1876
  • Structure: Uses a decimal system dividing knowledge into 10 main classes, each subdivided into 10 divisions and further into 10 sections.
  • Notation: Numeric (e.g., 500 for Natural Sciences, 510 for Mathematics).
  • Widely Used In: Public libraries, school libraries, and small academic libraries globally.

Example:

  • 500 – Natural Sciences
  • 510 – Mathematics
  • 512 – Algebra

1.2 Universal Decimal Classification (UDC)

  • Developed by: Paul Otlet and Henri La Fontaine, based on DDC.
  • Structure: Uses decimal notation but is more flexible and detailed than DDC. It allows for complex subjects using auxiliary signs (like +, /, : ).
  • Notation: Numeric with symbols (e.g., 004.421.2 for Programming).
  • Widely Used In: Special libraries, research institutions, and technical libraries.

Example:

  • 004 – Computer Science
  • 004.421 – Programming
  • 004.421.2 – Programming Languages

1.3 Library of Congress Classification (LCC)

  • Developed by: Library of Congress, USA.
  • Structure: Divides knowledge into 21 main classes using alphabetical letters and further divisions using numbers.
  • Notation: Alphanumeric (e.g., QA for Mathematics, QA76 for Computer Science).
  • Widely Used In: Large academic libraries, research institutions.

Example:

  • Q – Science
  • QA – Mathematics
  • QA76 – Computer Science

1.4 Colon Classification (CC)

  • Developed by: Dr. S. R. Ranganathan in 1933.
  • Structure: Based on five fundamental categories (PMEST):
    • P – Personality (Main subject)
    • M – Matter (Material of the subject)
    • E – Energy (Processes/activities)
    • S – Space (Location)
    • T – Time (Period)
  • Notation: Combination of numbers, letters, and colons (e.g., A:5).
  • Widely Used In: Indian libraries and research institutions.

Example:

  • B – Mathematics
  • B3 – Algebra
  • B3:5 – Algebra (Applied in Engineering)

2. Other Classification Schemes

2.1 Bliss Bibliographic Classification (BC)

  • Developed by: Henry E. Bliss in 1935.
  • Structure: Focuses on subject order rather than numeric/alphabetic hierarchy.
  • Notation: Alphanumeric with a more natural and flexible arrangement of subjects.
  • Widely Used In: Some UK libraries and special libraries.

2.2 Cutter Expansive Classification (CEC)

  • Developed by: Charles Ammi Cutter in late 19th century.
  • Structure: Seven levels of classification from general to specific, designed to be adaptable for different library sizes.
  • Notation: Alphanumeric.

2.3 Bibliographic Classification (BC) by J. D. Brown

  • Developed by: J. D. Brown in the UK.
  • Structure: Based on a subject-based arrangement with emphasis on related topics being placed together.
  • Less commonly used compared to other systems.

3. Faceted Classification Systems

Faceted classification allows multiple characteristics or facets of a subject to be combined, offering more flexibility in organizing complex subjects.

  • Colon Classification (CC) by Ranganathan is a pioneering faceted system.
  • Art & Architecture Thesaurus (AAT) uses a faceted approach for organizing concepts in arts and culture.

4. Subject-Specific Classification Schemes

  1. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Used for medical and health sciences.
  2. ERIC Thesaurus: For education-related resources.
  3. Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS): For chemical compounds and literature.

5. Choosing a Classification Scheme

Factors influencing the choice of classification scheme include:

  • Library Type: Academic, public, special, or school libraries may prefer different systems.
  • Collection Size and Complexity: Large research libraries often prefer LCC, while smaller libraries use DDC.
  • User Needs: Libraries focusing on specialized subjects may adopt UDC or a faceted system.
  • Regional Preferences: For example, Colon Classification is widely used in Indian libraries.