The Dewey Decimal System (DDC) is a numerical classification system used by libraries to organize their nonfiction collections by subject. Every nonfiction title circulated at the Fall River Public Library is issued its own Dewey number, which is displayed in the item's call number located on the lower portion of the book's spine. First created by Melvil Dewey in 1873, the Dewey Decimal System continues to provide libraries with an easy way to organize their collections throughout the world.
At first glance, Dewey Decimal numbers can be quite intimidating for new library users. Common questions that often come up are, "What do these numbers mean?" or "How am I meant to find what I'm looking for?" The staff in the Children's Room would like to reassure you that these numbers are nothing to be afraid of, and with a little practice, you will be able to find any nonfiction title you like. The key to mastering this system is repetition!
000 General
100 Philosophy & psychology
200 Religion
300 Social sciences
400 Language
500 Natural sciences & mathematics
600 Technology (Applied sciences)
700 The arts
800 Literature & rhetoric
900 Geography & history
1. Dewey Decimal numbers are comprised of two distinct parts that work together in providing nonfiction titles with their location. The first part indicates where the book is located using the library science division of information between 10 overarching topical groups. Starting at 000 and going to 999, this part of the number provides users with the general class that a book falls under.
Example: You find a book with a call number in the 900s, which means it will be about history or geography.
2. Numbers in the second and third place indicate specific divisions and sections within that general number.
Example: A book with a call number 970 will be about the history of North America, whereas 973 would be about United States history.
3. All nonfiction books found in the Children's Department include a "J" at the beginning of all its Dewey Numbers to indicate that the book is for juvenile readers.
Example: J973 is a children's book on U.S. history, while 973 would be an adult nonfiction title.
The decimal place, or all numbers after the first three, defines the specific subject of a book. Knowledge of decimal places and their means can go a long way in helping you locate the books you want to read in the nonfiction section because it helps to narrow your search down from the general topical areas represented by the first three numbers.
Example: J520 indicates the book is about astronomy.
J523 is a book about planets.
J523.41 is specifically about Mercury.
All shelves used for Children's Nonfiction are clearly labeled by topic on the lower right hand corner!
