[DCRM-L] Non-LC classification

[Robert Maxwell]

I'd just like to point out that patrons aren't the only ones who browse through the collection by call number. Our catalogers and curators routinely browse the collection, both physically and online in the catalog, particularly for things like collection assessment, or pulling like items for presentations and classes.

Bob

Robert L. Maxwell
Special Collections and Ancient Languages Catalog Librarian
Genre/Form Authorities Librarian
6728 Harold B. Lee Library
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT 84602
(801)422-5568

From: dcrm-l-bounces at lib.byu.edu [mailto:dcrm-l-bounces at lib.byu.edu] On Behalf Of Ann Myers
Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2010 7:33 AM
To: DCRM Revision Group List
Subject: Re: [DCRM-L] Non-LC classification

David,

We have moved away from LC Classification in the last year. Books are now cataloged and shelved according to a simple numeric system. The primary consideration for us was lack of space in our rare book shelving area - the numeric system means we don't have to leave space in the middle for possible interfiling. We've also seen the advantages of faster cataloging and a simpler training process for anyone doing shelving or working with the catalog records. The only potential downside that anyone has raised is that patrons will no longer be able to browse through the catalog by call number, but I am not convinced that many people had previously been doing that, and there are subject headings and collection names in the records to help bring like things together in the catalog. The advantages of this system have far outweighed any possible disadvantages.

I'd be happy to share more details about how we implemented the change, so feel free to contact me with more questions if you have them.

--Ann

Ann Myers
Special Collections Cataloger
Morris Library Mail Code 6632
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
605 Agriculture Drive
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-1499
amyers at lib.siu.edu
From: dcrm-l-bounces at lib.byu.edu [mailto:dcrm-l-bounces at lib.byu.edu] On Behalf Of Faulds, David
Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2010 9:58 PM
To: dcrm-l at lib.byu.edu
Subject: [DCRM-L] Non-LC classification

Dear list,

I'm wondering what advice other list members might have about moving away from an LC classification system to some form of alphanumeric system. The pros seem to outweigh the cons with faster cataloging, more efficient shelving and more accurate reshelving verses the loss of browsing.

So, what are the list's thoughts on making this change? Has anyone considered it and decided against it? All comments would be appreciated.

Thanks,
David.

David Faulds, Rare Book Librarian
Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library
Emory University
540 Asbury Circle
Atlanta, GA  30322-2870
http://marbl.library.emory.edu<http://marbl.library.emory.edu/>

dfaulds at emory.edu<mailto:naomi.nelson at emory.edu>
404-712-2612
404-727-0360 (fax)


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