How to Use

The

Library

The library is divided into several different categories, including picture books (easy), fiction, non-fiction, reference, periodicals, CD’s, videotapes, books on tape and paperbacks for swap.

We have three different sections which include all of the above categories, they are Children, Young Adult, and Adult.  The Children’s and Young Adult sections are to the right of the entrance.  Adult Fiction, Non-Fiction, Periodicals, Videotapes and CD’s are to the left of the entrance.

To find a book in the fiction category:  Fiction is shelved alphabetically by the last name of the author, then alphabetically by the name of the book: (“A” “an” and “the” are eliminated)   Example: THE SUMMONS by John Grisham will be found under the G’s, (for G risham, then  ‘S” for Summons.)

Non-fiction books are shelved in the Dewey Decimal Order.  This method was established by Melvil Dewey, a librarian at Amherst College.   Mr. Dewey published a book in 1876 outlining this system, which is used by most public libraries to this day.  It is one of the most convenient and comprehensive tools we have to help locate and classify information in a library.  Another method in wide usage today in colleges and universities is the Library of Congress Subject Classification System.  However, Dewey’s system has proven to be the easiest, most intuitive method to group subjects and divide library items into accessible, memorable sections.

Dewey decimal classifications

000-099 Computers, Computer Programming, the Internet

100-199      Ethics, Psychology and Philosophy

200-299      Religions, Bible, Myths

300-399      Government, Law, Fairy and Folk Tales

400-499      Languages

500-599      Science

600-699      Useful Arts, Inventions, Pet Care and Hobbies

700-799      Art, Music, Crafts and Sports

800-899 Literature: Plays and Poetry

900-999      Geography, Travel, History, Biography and Autobiography

These sections are clearly marked at the library.

THE CARD CATALOG

Our card catalog is on a computer at our library.  It is located immediately on your right just inside the front doors.   It is the way you find the “address” in the library where the item can be found.

Do you know the title of the book you are trying to find?  If so, type in the title.  The computer will give you the call number.

Do you know the author’s name?  If you do, type in their name.  The computer will list all items we have under that name, along with the call numbers.

Do you want to find a book on a certain subject, but do not know the author’s name, or the title?  If so, then, type in the subject. The computer will list all the items we have under that subject.

Be aware that there are many different categories in which a subject might be found.  Example: Dogs.  Books about dogs can be found under fiction, non-fiction, folklore, literature, sports, photography, recreation, also articles in periodicals, and audio and video tapes.

If you are still unable to locate an item, ask the librarian.