Die bruikbaarheid van bibliografiese klassifikasie in intydse katalogi

Abstract

THE USEFULNESS OF BIBLIOGRAPHIC CLASSIFICATION IN THE ONLINE CATALOGUE: Classification was used in libraries of ancient times, but a specific scientific method of arrangement was not in general use. The foundation of modern bibliographic classification was laid in 1876 with the publication of the Dewey decimal classification. The development of classification systems reflects the dual purpose role thereof namely, the arrangement of documents on library shelves and entries in catalogues, bibliographies and indexes. The subject approach to documents as opposed to external methods like size, colour, author etcetera, seems to be the most practicable arrangement for books as well as catalogue entries. Classification according to subject brings related subjects together and also shows the relationship that exists between those subjects. This feature is important for the arrangement of documents on shelves as well as for catalogue entries. Classification systems are important bibliographic tools for subject indexing in a library. A classification system consists of three essential components namely schedules, notation and index. The OPAC is an online catalogue which allows the end user to gain access to the information system without the help of a mediator. The OPAC allows much more search facilities and in dephts searches such as keyword searches in any fields. It is also easier to manipulate a search when using the OPAC than was the case with the traditional catalogue like a card catalogue. Subject access via class numbers, browsing of class numbers (combined with title or subject heading) and the use of class numbers as a pivot, results in a higher relevance during searches. The classification principles of bringing together related documents and entries, and showing the relationship between subjects, are equally important in today's catalogues (like the OPAC) as it has been in the past. The conclusion can be made that bibliographic classification is still useful in the modern library and in online catalogues.