Library Dropped Dewey

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

To make it easier for its libraries customers to browse and find books, Maricopa County Library District groups books by subject or category similar to the arrangement in bookstores instead of using the traditional Dewey Decimal Classification System. All materials related to a particular subject are grouped together in one place—in a “neighborhood”—creating an exciting new way for customers to use a library. The concept was based on the results of the Library District’s annual customer surveys where 75% said they go to the library to “browse”. The District’s first “Deweyless” library is a new multipurpose public library on a high-school campus and also serves as the school’s library. Instead of the Dewey system, it follows the BISAC (Book, Industry Standards and Communications) Headings.