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140 Years Ago Melvil Dewey Devised The Dewey Decimal System

Dewey Decimal

Dewey Decimal System Day is observed annually on December 10.

December 10, 1851, is the birthday of Melvil Dewey (1851-1931) inventor of the Dewey Decimal system of library classification.

As the most widely used library classification system, the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) or Dewey Decimal System has been in use since 1876 when American Librarian Melvil Dewey developed and established it. Divided into ten main categories, the numerical system arranges mostly non-fiction publications.

Since its inception, the system has been maintained and kept pace with current technologies. A schedule of expansions and revisions help keep the system current and progressive.

As the most widely used classification system in the world, the DDC is found in 135 countries around the world and translated into 30 different languages.

It is currently published by the OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc. and its editorial offices are located within the Decimal Classification Division of the Library of Congress.

Melvil Dewey

Dewey’s interest in simplification led him to create a system that revolutionized library science. Born Melville Louis Kosuth Dewey in update New York, he was only 21 when he invented the Dewey Decimal Classification system.

He established library standards and advanced library education. Dewey went on to help established the American Library Association and founded and edited the Library Journal. As an entrepreneur, he sold library supplies. He paved the way for new librarians by establishing the first library school at Columbia College in New York City and later became the director of the New York State Library in Albany.