CLASSIFICATION
The term classification is originated from the Latin word “Classis”. This word was used
in the ancient times of Rome to divide into separate parts on the basis of the property
and importance.
Definition of Classification- “Classification is the mental act of identifying the objects
as their attributes, forming their classes, and arranging the class in order.
or
“Classification is to organize things on the basis of equality and differentiation. "
Definition of Library Classification:
A library classification is organized on the same merits or differences so that the reader
can easily access the book because it is difficult to find books without classification.
Definition of library classification according to Cutter - "Book classification is the act of
collecting books composed on unchanged or similar subjects."
Definition of library classification according to JS Mills - Book classification is a
mechanized act of saving time in the search of knowledge in literature. "
Definition of library classification according to W. S. Meril - "#Book_classification is the
art of arranging #books in their proper #place."
Definition of library classification according to Ranganathan - "Library classification is
the translation of the specific subject name of the book into a preferential language. ......
There is also segregation of innumerable books on the specific subject with the help of
some serial number.
Need for Library Classification:
Classification in a library is very important because without it the work of the library is
not able to run smoothly. Following is the requirement of library classification.
1. Unlimited expansion of books - In the modern era, the number of books is
numerous and it is increasing daily and classification is necessary to control it.
2. Subject complexity - Currently, the complexity of subjects is increasing and
classification becomes necessary to organize the subject with the subject concerned.
3. For the purpose of the library - Classification is necessary to fulfill the purpose of
the library. Because all the work in it becomes simple.
4. To increase the use of books - Classification is necessary for the use of books in
the library. The reader easily reaches the book by classification. Hence classification is
helpful in book usage.
5. For the configuration in auxiliary order - Classification is necessary to place the
book in auxiliary order i.e. near the related book, Ranganathan has said - "To configure
books in auxiliary order" is the main objective of classification.
6. Saving time - In today's time, the reader lacks time, so the reader wants to reach the
relevant book in minimum time and this classification becomes necessary. In the
absence of classification, it may take the reader a long time to reach the book.
Purpose, and Function of Library Classification:
“The main purpose of classification is to configure books in subsidiary order.” The
following are the objectives and functions of manual classification.
1. Control over the expansion of books - The main purpose and function of the
classification are to control the increasing number of books in the library. It is difficult to
control in the library where there is a lot of books, due to lack of proper classification.
2. Arranging in auxiliary order - The main purpose and function of library classification
are to organize books in a subsidiary order. The books are decorated in the proper
place by classification.
3. Keeping the book in the proper place - The reader can reach the book on time
when it is located in the right place and the fulfillment of this purpose is possible by
library classification.
4. Providing the desired book to the reader - The library classifies the reader to his
desired book. This objective is not possible without classification.
5. Assistance in book selection - The library assists the reader in book selection by
classification. In books arranged by classification, many books related to one subject
are found in one place, so there is the ease in book selection.
6. Assistants in catalog creation - Library classification is helpful in the creation of
catalogs.
7. Saving time: - The main purpose and function of classification are to protect the
reader's time. The time of the reader is precious, he does not want to waste his time in
finding the book, so the classification serves this purpose.
Types:
There are four major types of classification schemes
1. Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
2. Universal Decimal Classification (UDC)
3. Library of Congress Classification (LCC
4. Colon Classification (CC).