Library classification is the systematic arrangement of books based on subject matter to facilitate easy retrieval of resources. It has evolved from ancient systems to modern classifications such as Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, and Universal Decimal classification, each with its own structure, strengths, and limitations. The importance of library classification lies in efficient organization, quick resource finding, and systematic storage.

1. Library Classification: An
Overview
Importance, Systems, and Practical
Use
[Your Name / Institution]

2. What is Library Classification?
• Definition: Library classification is the
systematic arrangement of books and
materials based on subject matter. It organizes
and facilitates easy retrieval of resources.
• Purpose: To organize and facilitate easy
retrieval of resources.

3. Importance of Library Classification
• • Efficient organization of materials.
• • Helps users find resources quickly.
• • Facilitates systematic storage and resource
management.

4. Historical Development of Library
Classification
• • Ancient systems: Alexandrian Library.
• • Medieval libraries: Classified libraries in
monasteries.
• • Modern systems: Developed in the 19th and
20th centuries.

5. Key Components of a Classification
System
• • Call Numbers: Unique identifiers for
materials.
• • Subjects: Basis for classification (e.g.,
science, arts).
• • Hierarchy: Broad subjects divided into
specific categories.

6. Types of Classification Systems
• • Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
• • Library of Congress Classification (LCC)
• • Colon Classification (CC)
• • Universal Decimal Classification (UDC)

7. Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
• • Developed by Melvil Dewey in 1876.
• • Uses a three-digit number for the main class
and decimals for subdivisions.
• • Widely used in public and school libraries.

8. DDC - Structure
• • 10 Main Classes (000 – 900).
• • Decimal numbers for specificity.
• • Example: 500 (Science), 510 (Mathematics),
512 (Algebra).

9. DDC - Strengths and Limitations
• Strengths:
• • Simple, widely adopted, and flexible.
• Limitations:
• • Bias toward Western knowledge.
• • Struggles with expanding topics.

10. Library of Congress Classification
(LCC)
• • Developed by the Library of Congress.
• • Uses letters and numbers (alphanumeric
system).
• • Primarily used in academic and research
libraries.

11. LCC - Structure
• • Divided into 21 main classes with subclasses.
• • Example: Q for Science, QA for Mathematics.
• • Detailed subject breakdown.

12. LCC - Strengths and Limitations
• Strengths:
• • Detailed and scalable for large collections.
• Limitations:
• • Complex and harder to adopt for smaller
libraries.

13. Universal Decimal Classification
(UDC)
• • Adaptation of DDC by Paul Otlet and Henri
La Fontaine.
• • Common in European libraries.
• • Uses symbols along with numbers to cover
complex subjects.