Dewey Decimal System
The Dewey Decimal System is a standard method used in libraries to organize and find books and materials. Think of it as the "filing system" of libraries, similar to how a store organizes products by departments and aisles. Created by Melvil Dewey in 1876, it divides library materials into 10 main categories (like 500 for Science, 800 for Literature) and then into more specific subcategories. When you see this term in resumes, it indicates that the candidate knows how to organize, categorize, and help people find information efficiently. Other similar systems include Library of Congress Classification, but Dewey remains the most widely used system in public and school libraries.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and organized 50,000+ books using the Dewey Decimal System
Trained staff and volunteers in proper Dewey Decimal Classification methods
Reorganized reference section following Dewey Decimal standards
Typical job title: "Librarians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Librarians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a major library reorganization project using the Dewey Decimal System?
Expected Answer: A senior librarian should discuss project management aspects, including staff training, timeline creation, maintaining access during reorganization, and quality control measures. They should also mention strategies for minimizing disruption to library services.
Q: How do you stay current with updates to the Dewey Decimal System and implement changes?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of professional development resources, OCLC updates, and experience in training staff on classification changes while maintaining consistency in the collection.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle items that could fit into multiple Dewey categories?
Expected Answer: Should explain decision-making process for classification, consideration of primary subject matter, and consistency in categorization choices.
Q: Explain how you would train a new staff member on using the Dewey Decimal System.
Expected Answer: Should outline basic training approach, including main categories, understanding call numbers, and practical exercises for new staff.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic structure of the Dewey Decimal System?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the ten main categories and how numbers work to create more specific subcategories.
Q: How do you locate a book using its Dewey Decimal number?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to read call numbers and locate materials on shelves using the numerical sequence.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of Dewey categories
- Shelving and organizing materials
- Basic catalog searching
- Customer service skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed classification knowledge
- Training others on system use
- Collection organization
- Problem-solving classification issues
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management of classification
- System-wide organization planning
- Staff training and development
- Policy development for cataloging
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to explain basic Dewey categories
- No hands-on experience with library catalogs
- Poor organizational skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- No knowledge of library software systems
Related Terms
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