Free Printable Dewey Decimal System Posters For Librarians

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Libraries have long been the backbone of knowledge and learning, providing a treasure trove of information and resources for individuals of all ages. At the heart of every library is the Dewey Decimal System, a classification system that helps patrons and librarians alike navigate the vast array of books and materials on the shelves. In this article, we will delve into the world of the Dewey Decimal System, exploring its history, benefits, and importance, as well as providing free printable posters for librarians to enhance their collections.

What is the Dewey Decimal System?

The Dewey Decimal System is a proprietary library classification system created by Melvil Dewey in 1876. It is used to organize books and other materials by subject, with each item assigned a unique numerical classification. The system is widely used in libraries around the world, with over 200,000 libraries in more than 135 countries adopting the system.

History of the Dewey Decimal System

Melvil Dewey, an American librarian and educator, developed the Dewey Decimal System while working at Amherst College in Massachusetts. Dewey was frustrated with the lack of organization and classification in libraries at the time and sought to create a system that would make it easier for patrons to find the materials they needed. After years of research and development, Dewey published the first edition of his classification system in 1876.

How Does the Dewey Decimal System Work?

The Dewey Decimal System is based on a numerical classification system, with each item assigned a unique number between 000 and 999. The numbers are divided into ten main classes, which are further divided into more specific subclasses. The main classes are:

• 000: General works
• 100: Philosophy and psychology
• 200: Religion
• 300: Social sciences
• 400: Language
• 500: Science
• 600: Technology
• 700: Arts and recreation
• 800: Literature
• 900: History and geography

Benefits of the Dewey Decimal System

The Dewey Decimal System has numerous benefits for both librarians and patrons. Some of the benefits include:

• Easy navigation: The Dewey Decimal System makes it easy for patrons to find the materials they need, as items are organized by subject and assigned a unique numerical classification.
• Efficient cataloging: The system allows librarians to catalog and classify materials quickly and efficiently, saving time and resources.
• Consistency: The Dewey Decimal System provides a consistent and standardized way of organizing materials, making it easier for patrons to navigate different libraries.

Free Printable Dewey Decimal System Posters for Librarians

To help librarians enhance their collections and promote the Dewey Decimal System, we are providing free printable posters that can be displayed in libraries. The posters feature the main classes and subclasses of the Dewey Decimal System, making it easy for patrons to navigate the shelves.

You can download and print the posters by clicking on the links below:

• Poster 1: Dewey Decimal System Main Classes
• Poster 2: Dewey Decimal System Subclasses
• Poster 3: Dewey Decimal System Chart

Tips for Using the Dewey Decimal System Posters

Here are some tips for using the Dewey Decimal System posters in your library:

• Display the posters prominently: Place the posters in areas where patrons can easily see them, such as near the circulation desk or on the walls of the library.
• Use the posters as a teaching tool: Use the posters to teach patrons about the Dewey Decimal System and how to use it to find materials.
• Create a scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt that requires patrons to find materials in different sections of the Dewey Decimal System.

Conclusion

The Dewey Decimal System is an essential tool for librarians and patrons alike. By providing a standardized and consistent way of organizing materials, the system makes it easy for patrons to find the materials they need. The free printable posters provided in this article can help librarians promote the Dewey Decimal System and enhance their collections. We hope that this article has been informative and helpful in your understanding of the Dewey Decimal System.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with the Dewey Decimal System in the comments below. How do you use the system in your library? What tips and tricks do you have for teaching patrons about the system?