Classification as a means of subject access in libraries : a case study of the use of the Dewey Decimal Classification scheme at the University of Auckland's Music Library

Abstract

This research project examines what library users understand about a library's classification scheme, the way in which it arranges documents by subject at the shelves; and how classification numbers can be used for subject searching using the Library's Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). A questionnaire was distributed to users of the Music Library at the University of Auckland - undergraduate and postgraduate students, and academic and general staff. This questionnaire aimed to investigate user understanding of the function of the classification scheme within the library - as it is used to arrange documents at the shelves and for searching using the OP AC. Questionnaire results were not able to clarify whether simplifying the call numbers or classification of the library's documents would help library users to better understand the classification scheme. The results indicate that familiarity with the arrangement of a library makes using call numbers (however long and complicated) easier; and helps library users locate material on the shelves (in specific subject areas) without consulting the OP AC. The results also indicate that subject access provided by the OP AC could be improved, by providing more guidance in the form of an online classified list or screen display which demonstrates to library users the hierarchy of the classification scheme -combined with its related subject headings