New Directions in Reference,edited by Byron Anderson and Paul T. Webb |
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| Authors: | Reviewed by Alea Henle Graduate Student |
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| Institution: | University of Connecticut , Storrs, CT 06269 |
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| Abstract: | Abstract This paper addresses some to the problems associated with the ability of elementary school children to successfully retrieve material in the school library media center using either the card or computer catalogues and presents some alternative methods of classification which may help to alleviate these problems. Primary objectives of the paper include inquiry into the need for an alternative method of classification for children, whether children of elementary school age have the ability to successfully use a system of classification, the extent to which the use of colors and/or symbols as search aides may facilitate children/s search efforts and the steps involved in the evolution of such an alternative classification system. Several case studies are examined and a detailed case study of The Common School Library in Amherst, Massachusetts is presented. Findings of this study indicate that children do have the ability to use a classification system which is designed in keeping with their developmental level and that the use of colors and/or symbols as supplementary search tools does facilitate children/s search efforts. The author also presents recommendations regarding the use of alternative systems of classification with other segments of the population who may have difficulty using standard means of library classification. |
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| Keywords: | Catalog use by children subject access by children child development and information retrieval |
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