Why Build Dewey Numbers? The Remediation of the Dewey Decimal Classification System

Tore Brattli

doi:10.7557/13.2383

Abstract

Correct Dewey classification is demanding and time consuming. Many of the challenges with the Dewey system are related to locating and interpreting notes (i.e. classification guidelines), and number building.Today’s Dewey structure is a result of more than 100 years of optimizing a comprehensive classification system to the printed book medium. In order to limit the system into a “manageable” size, facets and facet-like subjects are represented only once and instead referred to from relevant classes for number building. A similar technique is used to reduce the number of notes.With the remediation of Dewey from printed to computer media, space is not limited and there is no need to compress the classification system. Number building can be eliminated, and all relevant notes attached to each class. Despite the fact that the system now has been available in electronic form for almost 20 years, it is still largely a copy of the printed version.This article first investigates how the Dewey system may be presented for users without number building, in order to make it more immediate and user-friendly. We first analyze the Dewey structure, and then look at different representations of the structure suited for computer media. Finally, some ideas for a new presentation without number building are proposed.

Highlights

Library classification systems use codes to represent subjects of library material
The main advantages of classification codes compared to subject headings, are the ability to sort documents by subject, perform hierarchical searches, and an independence of language, e.g. a book on Computer graphics has the same Dewey code (006.6) in all languages
WebDewey is certainly hypermediated with multiple windows, clickable links and hierarchical browsing, but the underlying structure with number building and sparse notes is a construction tailor made for the printed book medium

Summary

Introduction

Library classification systems use codes to represent subjects of library material. The most visible expression of classification codes is the call number label on the spine of most library books. Every DDC class must link to its traditional hierarchical subclasses listed in the schedules and to classes referred to in add to base number notes if there are any. A DDC subtree can be defined as a tree starting from T1 or any other node that is referred to in Add to base number notes in connection with number building. From some subtree classes (often leafs), it is possible to jump (using a link) to the root of other Add to base number subtrees and continue down the directed paths This continues until we hopefully reach the most relevant class, a sink or we are stopped by rules that do not allow us to go any further

Examples of atomic subtrees Each of the classes

Number building in the current edition of WebDewey

Conclusion and future work