@ Cliffside Park Public Library Not Quite Non-Dewey @ Cliffside Park Public Library

Why Change Dewey is not how most patrons think! Easier browsing for patrons. Collection development can be easier (visual of size of collections).

The Idea Adult Service Librarian got the idea, became enamored of the idea, got me on board! We did not want to give up Dewey completely for a variety of reasons. Started really looking at what was in each Dewey section and how many shelves we had of various areas. Much back and forth about signs, groups and how it would be on the shelves. Decided on going with slightly larger categories for signs and then smaller grouping on shelves.

The Categories How general or detailed do you want to go? Space! Space! Space! Had discussions about computer programs like photoshop going in with technology or with arts.

The Right Word Our Society Section for example… The sign & call # say Society, the stickers say social issues, it includes all books dealing with people - relationships, gender, drug addiction, crime, fashion, etiquette. These books influenced or were influenced by people, by societal pressures. This example shows us why we felt it important to keep Dewey in action.

How to Change Decide on categories & what goes into each. Pick labels. What is availabe may help you make selections.

Timeline This idea began in January, the labeling and shifting took from about May to September to get it finished. We did the Adult & YA non-fiction. Weeding is a big component of this project, so be prepared for a lot of discards.

In the end… Patrons love it! Staff loves it! It is easier to analyze the collection. IT WAS NOT HARD TO DO!