+44 (0) 1273 386849Choosing and using a classification system for your school library
Why should you classify your school library collection? Itβs a question worth asking, especially when embarking on the journey of setting up or rethinking a library space. A good classification system isnβt just about keeping books tidy – itβs about creating a space thatβs intuitive, engaging, and tailored to the needs of your school community.Β
In this post, weβll explore why classification matters, when and why you might consider reclassifying your collection, and the practicalities of choosing a system that works for your library. From alphabetical order to thematic organisation, weβll cover the pros, cons, and practical tips for implementing a system that suits your needs.Β
Why should you classify your school library collection?
Organising is a human instinct – whether itβs our homes, offices, hobby materials, or even the universe itself, we thrive on creating order. A library without a classification system is like Google Maps without a blue location dot – itβs hard to navigate and easy to get lost. Classification transforms chaos into clarity, and we all need more of that!Β
A classification system helps learners, teachers, and staff quickly find the resources they need. It fosters curiosity, supports research, and encourages a lifelong love of reading. For school librarians, an organised system ensures the collection is accessible, supports the curriculum, and maximises the libraryβs potential as a hub for exploration and learning.Β
Why would you reclassify your school library collection?
Reclassifying your school library collection can make it easier for students and staff to find and enjoy resources while keeping the library organised and relevant. Itβs a chance to align with curriculum updates, help integrate new materials and simplify browsing for young library users.Β Β
It could also assist with a “glow upβ of the library. Reclassification can make the library more engaging with clear labels and inviting new displays. Whether updating a cluttered setup or rebranding your library, a well-planned reclassification can transform it into a vibrant, user-friendly hub for learning.Β Β
But before you get started, consider the following:Β
- Time and resources: Reclassification is a significant project. Ensure you have the time, staff, and tools to see it through.Β
- User impact: Communicate changes to students and staff and involve them in testing the new system to minimise confusion.Β
- Documentation: Keep a record of the new system for consistency and future reference.Β
By reclassifying your school library collection, youβre not just reorganising books – youβre creating a more effective, inspiring, and user-friendly space that better meets the needs of your school community.Β
From A-Z - separating fact from fiction!
In school libraries, classification systems are often simplified to suit the age and reading levels of the students. You could say that fiction is the easier category to organise. At the most basic level, this means dividing resources into fiction and non-fiction categories. From there, simply arrange books alphabetically by the authorβs last name.Β Β
There are benefits to this method. For library people, it is a quick and easy way to organise books, useful when time is at a premium. You can obviously keep series/runs of books together and students can find their favourite authors. Consider placing oversized/picture books in bright, child-friendly display cases or boxes to encourage younger readers.Β
Goodbye alphabet, hello adventure: Organising fiction by genre
Organising your library by genre (or genrefication!) can create an exciting and engaging experience for students, helping them find books that match their interests more easily. The National Literacy Trust highlights how a genre-based approach can mimic the layout of a bookshop, making the library feel familiar and accessible.Β Β
To get started, analyse the themes in your fiction collection and think about childrensβΒ interests. Ensure each genre is clearly labelled with eye-catching signage. Whether itβs a mystery, historical, time-travel, relationships – a genre-based system makes reading fun and intuitive.Β Β
This method requires a little more effort than alphabetical order. The librarian must identify and classify each new book, but it means that children can immediately discover new stories in their favourite genres. They donβt have to remember author names which can be a benefit to both them and the librarian!Β
Ideas for non-fiction classification systems
Following on from fiction organised by genre, there are some options for your non-fiction.Β These are all variations on themes, so it just depends on how you label them.Β
1. Colour-coded organisationΒ
Assign a colour to each subject area. For example, you might use orange for history, blue for geography, and green for science. Pair vibrant colours with clear shelf signage to make navigation easy, even for younger children. This visual system is both practical and engaging.Β
2. Thematic organisationΒ
Organise books by theme, such as animals, art, sports, or history. Label the books and shelves accordingly. To make it even simpler, use emojis – β½οΈ for sports, π for geography, π¨ for art. This modern, playful approach can make the library feel more accessible and fun.Β
3. Number-based organisationΒ
Some schools adapt the Dewey Decimal System for their purposes, simplifying it to suit their collection. This is ideal for larger libraries or those catering to older students but may be too complex (or old fashioned) for primary school settings.Β
Test your classification system before diving in
Before settling on a classification method, test it with students, staff, and volunteers. Walk through the library as a child would. Are the sections easy to navigate? Adjust as needed.Β
- Know your audience: Younger children benefit from visual cues like colours or emojis. For older students, themed shelves with creative namesβlike The Science Lab for science books or Time Travellers HQ for historyβcan spark curiosity.Β
- Consider your collection: Smaller libraries might need only a simple system, allowing for more creative displays and engaging layouts.Β
- Stick to it: Consistency is crucial. Once you choose a system, stay with it so users can reliably navigate the library. Many of us still remember where our favourite books were shelved in our childhood libraries!Β
How complicated should your classification levels be?
The level of detail in your classification system depends entirely on your libraryβs size, resources, and the schoolβs needs. While a primary school history section might not be extensive, it could align with the curriculum by including categories like Ancient China, the Mayans, the Vikings, the Romans, Local History, the 20th Century, or cultural discussions around historical events.Β
Similarly, geography and science can be tailored to reflect curriculum topics. For example, geography might include continents, ecosystems, and human geography, while science could cover animals, plants, forces, and space. Breaking these subjects into smaller sections can makes for better browsing.Β
If there is an entire bookcase about a topic, think about how you organise them within that section. Books can be organised alphabetically by title or author for simplicity but remember what we said about organising by author. Another approach is by reading level, especially for younger students, using coloured labels or icons to indicate difficulty.Β Β
Large books, like oversized picture books, could be housed in child-friendly display cases or boxes to make them accessible and visible.Β
For braille resources or other accessible formats, consider a separate, clearly labelled area to ensure they are easy to locate. Shelve these materials at an appropriate height for independent access, and include tactile or visual cues, such as embossed signs or contrasting colours, to assist users with visual impairments.Β
Ultimately, the complexity of your system should be driven by what works best for your school. Keep it simple enough for students to navigate independently but detailed enough to meet curriculum needs and promote exploration. Remember, the goal is a user-friendly library that serves its community effectively.Β
Step-by-step: Classifying your collection
Step 1: Plan and document your systemΒ
Write everything down in your policy/guidance notes. Define each category, including what belongs in it, and create a guide for staff and volunteers. This ensures consistency and reduces confusion.Β
Step 2: Sort your collectionΒ
Divide material into fiction and non-fiction, then organise everything into your chosen categories. This process is an excellent opportunity to assess the collectionβs condition, currency, and relevance.Β
Step 3: Label clearlyΒ
Label each book with stickers or tags based on your system. Use durable label protectors to ensure longevity. Place labels on the spine for easy visibility. Update your library management system to reflect your new classification.Β
Step 4: Add shelf markersΒ
Label shelves and book boxes with matching signs or markers. Clearly marked sections make navigation simple for everyone, from students to staff. Everything will look wonderful so be proud of your work.Β
Conclusion: Organise for success
Choosing and implementing a classification system might seem daunting, but itβs an opportunity to make your school library truly shine. A well-organised library makes resources more accessible, supports studentsβ learning journeys, and fosters a love for reading.Β Β
By taking the time to plan and execute your system thoughtfully, youβre creating a space where students and staff can find what they need – quickly and independently.Β
With a clear plan and the right tools, your school library will become a hub of exploration, creativity, and learning. Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the process – itβs incredibly rewarding to see your library transform into an organised, inspiring space.Β
Library Glossary for School Librarians
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Why do I need a classification system in my school library?
A: A classification system provides clarity and structure to your collection, making it easier for students and staff to locate resources. This not only promotes independent learning but also encourages a deeper love of reading and exploration.
2. When should I consider reclassifying my school library collection?
A: Itβs worth considering reclassification when your current setup no longer meets your studentsβ needs or aligns with curriculum changes. This can also be a great opportunity to refresh and revitalise the libraryβs look and feel.
3. Is alphabetical order enough for organising books?
A: Alphabetical order works for many schoolsβespecially for fictionβbut it may not meet all needs. If students are having trouble finding the right books or if your non-fiction collection is growing, you might find a more detailed approach beneficial.
4. What is βgenreficationβ and why is it popular?
A: Genrefication is the practice of organising fiction by genre (e.g., mystery, fantasy, historical). It helps readers quickly identify books that match their interests and is popular because it mirrors a familiar βbookshopβ experience, boosting engagement
5. Which classification system works best for non-fiction?
A: Common approaches include colour-coding by subject, thematic organisation (using emojis or icons), or a simplified Dewey Decimal System. The best choice depends on the size of your collection, the age of your students, and the curriculumβs requirements.
6. How do I decide on the level of complexity for classification?
A: Consider your resources, the size of your library, and the studentsβ ages. Smaller libraries might benefit from simple systems, while larger, more diverse collections may require more detailed categorisation to accommodate advanced research needs.
7. How can I manage the time and resources needed for reclassification?
A: Start by setting clear goals and timelines. Gather support from volunteers, staff, or even student helpers. Break the project into manageable stepsβlike sorting first, then labellingβto prevent overwhelm and ensure you have enough resources to complete the process.
8. How do I keep everyone informed about a new or updated system?
A: Communication is key. Host information sessions for staff, send email updates, and provide a simple guide or map of the new system. Encourage feedback and run a brief orientation with students so they feel empowered to explore the new layout.
9. Can I test a new classification system before fully committing?
A: Absolutely! Start by trialling a small section of the library. Ask students, staff, and volunteers for feedback. If navigation improves and users have an easier time finding resources, you can confidently roll out the approach to the entire collection.
10. How do I label and display classified books effectively?
A: Use colour-coded stickers, icons, or spine labels to indicate categories or reading levels. Pair these labels with clear shelf markers or signage that mirrors the label design. This visual consistency helps everyone locate resources quickly and reduces confusion.
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