Unshelved

Though not strictly related to the DDC, this comic is an amusing look at a version of the library world. And one of the main characters is named Dewey. :)


Libraries (and librarians and patrons) can be very amusing.

The Death of Dewey?

New technology may mean major changes in the way libraries are able to arrange their books.

Universal Decimal Classification

An offshoot of the Dewey Decimal Classification is the Universal Decimal Classification, first published in France in 1904. This system easily allows for the addition of new subjects, which makes it more flexible that the DDC.

The UDC has their own informational blog.

Dewey Simplifies the History of Man

For anyone who is having trouble remembering the major sections of the Dewey Decimal system, as well as their order, here is a helpful way to think about it, complete with illustrations.

Meet Dewey

The Dewey Decimator joins the legions of superheroes. On display now at the Central branch of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Libraries. He was born deep in the stacks at the library. By day, librarian; in times of need, the Decimator. Strikes fear in the heart of the disorganized. Has photographic memory and knows what every reader needs. Weakness? Cannot speak above a whisper.

Libraries Are A Changin'

A library in Arizona reorganized their collection without using Dewey's system. Another library tries to make their space look more like a bookstore. What is the future of libraries?

Selected Bibliography of Sources about the DDC

Bowman, J.H. Essential Dewey. New York: Neal-Schuman, 2005.

Lyster, T.W. "Some observations on the Dewey notation and classification as applied to arrangement of books on library shelves." The Library 8. (1896): 482-490.

Robertshaw, W. "Systematic classification in British public libraries". Library World 25. (1922/23): 227-231.

Graziano, E.E. "Hegel's philosophy as basis for the Dewey Classification Schedule". Libri. (1959): 45-52.

Batty, C.D. "Dewey abroad: International use of the Dewey Decimal system". Library of Congress Quarterly Journal. (1976): 300-310.

Markey, K. "Searching and browsing the DDC in an online catalog". Cataloging & Classification Quarterly. (1987): 37-68.

Shorten, J., Seikel, M., & Ahrberg, J. "Why do you still use Dewey?" Library Resources and Technical Services. (2005): 123-136.