Reclassification

The Wessex Classification Scheme Oversight Group have put together some ideas to help anyone looking to reclassify their library collections.

• Weed the relevant sections first
• Make sure you have sufficient labels / label protectors etc. so you don't have to wait for new supplies in the middle of a project
• Consider doing smaller collections first, for example wellbeing books, exam collections etc.
• If using a spreadsheet, make use of tabs for different staff members or for different sections
• Spreadsheets can be helpful to map out how old classmarks translate into Wessex classmarks
• One approach is to do the reclassification in stages – start by reclassifying books and writing the new classmark in a different place to where you would normally write it and then when everything is reclassified do a mass re-labelling and moving project
• It might be easier to leave ‘problem’ books until the end and concentrate on getting the majority of books done as quickly as possible
• Make use of batch modification in your LMS if possible – you may need to ask system administrators to do this for you
• If you can free up some empty shelves, reclassified books that have no place to go to just yet (for example, returned books) can be placed on them in classmark order until shelf space is freed up. Make sure those shelves are well labelled (for example “Awaiting reshelving – [classmark range]”)
• Don’t forget items on loan – you may need to add (non-public) notes or place reservations on books
• When putting on new spine labels, now might be a good time to try to agree on placement so they are all at the same height
• Make sure you use the correct format consistently throughout the catalogue and the collection – Wessex classmarks should have a space between the letters and numbers (and any author cutters if used) for example, WB 141 SMI
• Use signage to let library users know that reclassification is in progress – this can reduce confusion and manage expectations if books are temporarily out of place
• Build in time for staff familiarisation with the new scheme
• Use a knowledge mobilisation technique such as a before action review, after action review or a retrospect to plan the project or see what lessons can be learnt