Implementing Color-Coding for DDC Main Classes in the Academic Library to Improve Shelf Management and Reduce the Problem of Misplaced Books.

Abstract

Effective information resources organisation and location systems are needed in academic libraries. The Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) is used as a basis for arranging books on the shelves, but it may be difficult for users to find subject areas in the system and to locate missing books. The present study aimed at investigating the possibility of using colour coding in the main classes of DDC as another visual identification tool in an academic library. A descriptive and evaluative research design was used to evaluate the problems encountered in locating books in the library, the library experience of misplaced books, the perception of colour coding and the usefulness of shelf management. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain the views of the library users and library staff, with a structured observation of shelves conducted before and after the proposed intervention to assess the condition of the shelves. The results suggested that colour coding could facilitate recognition of material categories, help in arranging materials on shelves and help locate misplaced materials. The statistical analysis also revealed that there is a significant difference in the conditions of the shelves before and after the proposed implementation. The research results indicate that DDC colour coding is a feasible and additional visual device to be used in conjunction with DDC and call number system.