Senake Bandaranayake library classification system for archaeology (SBC)

Abstract

Senake Bandaranayake library classification system is based on the Library collection of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR), University of Kelaniya. It was introduced by Emeritus Professor Senaka Bandaranaike in 1987. It has formulated its own classification system to suit the needs of a small to medium scale library. Archaeology is a multi-disciplinary subject. Therefore the use of a general classification system was problematic when organizing a specialized collection, such as archaeology. The Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and the Universal Decimal Classification (UDC) are the most widely used classification systems in the world. It is observed that neither the DDC nor UDC is suitable to classify an archaeological collection of this nature. There is no other generally accepted scheme for a special collection such as archaeology. Therefore, Prof. Senake Bandaranayake has decided to formulate its own classification scheme to serve the needs. This classification system is designed mainly for the purpose of organizing a collection of archeology and related subjects, giving priority to Sri Lanka. This makes it easier for the reader to access the information they need. For over 30 years, this classification system has been used by the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology to organize their library collection. However, this classification has not been discussed in the field of Library Science in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this article is to introduce the Senaka Bandaranayake classification system for archaeology and to get suggestions and ideas from the library community.