Classification and Cataloguing Policy:
Whatever may be the scheme of classification or catalogue code chosen, a policy should be formulated for their application. Some of the issues on which policy decisions should be taken relate to the following:
- Broad vs close classification. Whether classification should be coextensive with the thought-content of the document or whether it should be broad, i.e., the extent or depth to which one must go in assigning class numbers.
- Whether cataloguing should be descriptive or simplified or selective. The number of main and added entries to be prepared per document or book should be decided.
- Whether variations to suit local requirements can be made.
- Whether the catalogues should be in Card Form or Ledger Form.
- If in Card Form, whether it should be handwritten or typed.
- If in Ledger Form, whether it should be handwritten or printed. If printed, can it be made accessible to other libraries and users?
- It is better to decide on these issues in the beginning itself as it would be difficult to change course in midstream.