Dewey Decimal System Chart

Hannah Arendt

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29-11-2024

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The Dewey Decimal System (DDC) is a widely used library classification system that organizes books and other library materials by subject. Developed by Melvil Dewey in 1876, it's a hierarchical system, meaning it arranges topics from broad categories to increasingly specific ones. Understanding the DDC chart is crucial for anyone navigating a library or researching information effectively.

How the Dewey Decimal System Works

The DDC uses a numerical system with ten main classes, each represented by a single digit:

• 000 Computer science, information, & general works: This encompasses computer science, library science, encyclopedias, and general reference materials.
• 100 Philosophy & psychology: This includes metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and various schools of psychological thought.
• 200 Religion: This section covers various religions, their histories, and related theological studies.
• 300 Social sciences: This broad category includes sociology, economics, political science, law, education, and social issues.
• 400 Language: This covers linguistics, dictionaries, grammars, and the study of various languages.
• 500 Pure science: This section includes mathematics, physics, chemistry, astronomy, and the earth sciences.
• 600 Technology: This covers applied sciences, engineering, medicine, agriculture, and technology.
• 700 The arts: This encompasses visual arts, performing arts, recreational arts, and related fields.
• 800 Literature: This section includes works of literature, literary criticism, and literary history.
• 900 Geography & history: This encompasses geography, world history, and the history of specific regions or countries.

Understanding the Decimal Breakdown

Each main class is further subdivided using decimals. For example, within the 300s (Social Sciences), you might find:

• 301 Sociology: General sociological studies.
• 302 Social anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures.
• 303 Social science encyclopedias: Reference works on social sciences.

These subdivisions can be further refined to a high degree of specificity, allowing for very detailed classification. You might find sub-subdivisions such as 301.11 Social stratification or 301.0973 Sociology of the United States.

Using the Dewey Decimal System in Practice

Libraries using the DDC typically have a shelf arrangement that follows the numerical order of the system. This allows patrons to easily locate materials on a specific topic by knowing its DDC number. Many library catalogs also use the DDC to facilitate searches, allowing users to find books based on subject matter.

Beyond the Basics

While this provides a general overview, the DDC is a complex system with many nuances and variations. Libraries may adapt it slightly to suit their specific collections. However, understanding the basic structure and ten main classes offers a solid foundation for navigating any library utilizing the Dewey Decimal System. For more detailed information, consult a complete DDC manual or your local library's catalog.