Name: ABUBAKAR MUHAMMAD TATA
Matric no: KASU/22/BIO/1080
Course code: GST 102
ASSIGNMENT QUESTIONS
1. What is ISBN and ISSN
2. Define Library Classification Scheme
3. List and explain the 3 Types of Library classification scheme
4. List and Discuss The 3 Classification Schemes used in Nigerian
libraries
1. ISBN and ISSN
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It is a unique
numerical identifier assigned to each edition and variation of a book.
The purpose of ISBN is to provide a standardized and internationally
recognized method for identifying books. The ISBN typically consists of
either 10 or 13 digits, and it is used by publishers, booksellers,
libraries, and other entities involved in the book trade to catalog,
order, and track books.
ISSN stands for International Standard Serial Number. It is a unique
identifier assigned to periodical publications such as magazines,
journals, newspapers, and other ongoing publications. The ISSN is used
to distinguish between different publications, particularly those with
the same or similar titles. It helps in the efficient management,
identification, and retrieval of serials. The ISSN consists of eight digits,
divided into two groups of four, separated by a hyphen.
2.The Library Classification Scheme
A library classification scheme is a systematic method used to organize
and categorize library materials, such as books, periodicals,
audiovisual materials, and other resources. It provides a structure and
a set of rules for assigning unique identifiers or call numbers to items
in a library collection, facilitating their storage, retrieval, and browsing.
3.The 3 Types of Library Classification Scheme
1. Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC):
The Dewey Decimal Classification system is one of the most widely
used library classification schemes. It was developed by Melvil Dewey
in the late 19th century and is based on a numerical structure. The
scheme divides knowledge into ten main classes, each represented by
a numerical range, and further subdivides these classes into more
specific categories. The Dewey Decimal Classification covers a wide
range of subjects and is commonly used in public and school libraries.
For example, class 500 represents the natural sciences and
mathematics. It is divided into subclasses like 510 for mathematics,
520 for astronomy and allied sciences, 530 for physics, and so on. Each
subclass can be further divided into more specific topics.
2. Library of Congress Classification (LCC):
The Library of Congress Classification system is primarily used in
academic and research libraries, particularly in the United States. It
was developed by the Library of Congress and is based on a
combination of letters and numbers. The LCC organizes materials into
21 main classes, represented by letters of the alphabet, and further
subdivides them into subclasses using additional letters and numbers.
For example, class Q represents science. It is divided into subclasses
like QA for mathematics, QB for astronomy, QC for physics, and so on.
Each subclass can be further divided into more specific topics.
The Library of Congress Classification system offers more detailed
subject coverage compared to the Dewey Decimal Classification,
making it suitable for large research collections.
3. Universal Decimal Classification (UDC):
The Universal Decimal Classification system is another widely used
library classification scheme. It was developed by Paul Otlet and Henri
La Fontaine in the late 19th century and is based on the Dewey
Decimal Classification. The UDC uses a decimal numeric structure
similar to the Dewey Decimal Classification but provides greater
flexibility by allowing the addition of new categories and subjects.
The UDC covers a wide range of knowledge areas and is commonly
used in libraries around the world. It is particularly popular in Europe
and is known for its multilingual features, which enable classification in
multiple languages.
4.The 3 Classification Schemes used in Nigerian libraries
In Nigerian libraries, various classification schemes are used to
organize and arrange library materials for efficient retrieval and
access. While there are several classification schemes available, four
commonly used ones are:
1. Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC):
The Dewey Decimal Classification system is widely used in Nigerian
libraries. It was developed by Melvil Dewey and is based on a
numerical system that divides knowledge into ten main classes, further
subdivided into hierarchies. The DDC covers a broad range of subjects
and is particularly suitable for general libraries. It is easy to use and
comprehend, making it popular in many Nigerian libraries.
2. Library of Congress Classification (LCC):
The Library of Congress Classification system is another widely used
scheme in Nigerian libraries. It was developed by the Library of
Congress in the United States and is based on the subject approach.
The LCC uses a combination of letters and numbers to classify
materials, providing a detailed and comprehensive arrangement. It is
commonly used in academic and research libraries, where a more
extensive subject coverage is required.
3. Universal Decimal Classification (UDC):
The Universal Decimal Classification system is utilized in some Nigerian
libraries, particularly those with an international focus. It is based on
the Dewey Decimal Classification but incorporates additional features
to accommodate a more extensive range of subjects. The UDC uses a
mixed notation system of Arabic numerals, decimal points, and
symbols to classify materials. It is considered flexible and suitable for
libraries with diverse subject collections.
4. Colon Classification (CC):
The Colon Classification system was developed by S.R. Ranganathan,
an Indian librarian, and is used in a few Nigerian libraries. It is based on
the facet analysis approach, which breaks down subjects into facets or
specific aspects. The CC uses a combination of symbols, numbers, and
letters to represent different facets and their relationships. It provides
a systematic and logical arrangement of materials and is especially
suitable for special libraries with focused subject areas.
Each classification scheme has its strengths and weaknesses, and the
choice of which one to use in a particular library depends on factors
such as the nature of the collection, user requirements, and available
resources. Nigerian libraries may also employ a hybrid classification
system or adapt existing schemes to suit their specific needs.
