Classification Systems

Two classification systems are most commonly used in libraries today. These are the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) System, and the Library of Congress (LC) Classification System. Dewey is based on a numerical breakdown of all topics, and the Library of Congress system is made up of an alphanumerical subject organization.

Other classification systems exist, usually designed for special libraries that need more detail in their subject organization than can be provided through the Dewey or Library of Congress (LC) systems. For example, the National Library of Medicine uses a system of letters and numbers that gives them greater detail in the areas of medicine than can be found in either Dewey or LC.

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