Defining Library Genrefication
The term genrefication made its way into Urban Dictionary in 2008 and is defined as "the process or idea of classifying music, film, literature, or other such mediums into specific genres or categories." This general definition is valid; although for the current case, genrefication is discussed with specific regard to public and school libraries. As such, genrefication is explored as a means of classification that is either an addition to, alternative to, or an adaptation of the traditional Dewey Decimal System.
While genrefication is the featured term of choice, the general concept is sometimes referenced using other descriptors: bookstore model, subject-based cataloging, or nontraditional shelving. It may, although is not required to, coincide with movements to make collections Dewey-free, Deweyless, or un-Deweyed. Genrefication may commonly be associated as an element of more overarching approaches that are customer-driven, customer-focused, user-centered, student-centered, and learner-centered. For public libraries, genrefication may be seen as a hallmark of Dave Genesy's "merchandised" library. And, for school libraries, genrefication may stand out in alignment with the goals of David Loertscher's "Learning Commons."
Labels and lingo aside, you may get a better sense of the scope of genrefication by exploring the links below.
While genrefication is the featured term of choice, the general concept is sometimes referenced using other descriptors: bookstore model, subject-based cataloging, or nontraditional shelving. It may, although is not required to, coincide with movements to make collections Dewey-free, Deweyless, or un-Deweyed. Genrefication may commonly be associated as an element of more overarching approaches that are customer-driven, customer-focused, user-centered, student-centered, and learner-centered. For public libraries, genrefication may be seen as a hallmark of Dave Genesy's "merchandised" library. And, for school libraries, genrefication may stand out in alignment with the goals of David Loertscher's "Learning Commons."
Labels and lingo aside, you may get a better sense of the scope of genrefication by exploring the links below.
3 Basic AssumptionsRegardless of how you feel about library genrefication, take a moment to review these three basic assumptions that serve as a foundation for deliberating the case at hand.
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Historical ContextGenrefication may seem like it's a recent fad, but the discussion, particularly with regard to fiction collections, is nearly as old as the Dewey system itself.
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Sample ModelsWhen going outside of the traditional Dewey system of classification, what are some models that people are following? Check out a few noteworthy samples.
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