Classification & Call Numbers

Classification is the process of arranging based on shared characteristics. Libraries use classification systems to arrange their collections by related subjects. Catalogers rarely devise their own classification systems from scratch, but rather rely on editorial committees made of subject experts to maintain systems such as Dewey Decimal Classification and Library of Congress Classification. Despite this, there are still many local decisions that go into the process of classifying and assigning a call number to each item in the collection.

In Classification & Call Numbers, the tenth tutorial in the ongoing Cataloging Fundamentals video series, we’ll explore the basics of classification, the most common classification systems used in libraries, and how classification forms the basis of the call number.

The Cataloging Fundamentals video series is one component of the Cataloging Fundamentals Program. If you have ideas for a future video or about how to support new catalogers in Colorado, please drop me a line at hitchner_a@cde.state.co.us.