Usage of Library Classification in University Libraries in Sri Lanka: a Study based on Kelaniya and Peradeniya Universities

Abstract

The basic function of the classification is to combine, demarcate and categorize those items or entities or materials which are focused as according to their similar characteristics found in such materials and to distinguish those which have unequal characteristics. At present, this classification concept has been introduced into the field of libraries. Library classification is a strategy designed to make the best use of the intellectual content of books and other forms in the library. The main objective of this research is to study how classification is used in university libraries. Among other objectives are to identify the classification systems used in university libraries to identify which edition of the classification is used, to identify the major classification functions used, to explore how staff understand the value and the usage of classifications to explore how to make things easier by using classification and to identify problems that arise in the use of library classification of university libraries. The research strategy used here is the survey study design. The research is being carried out under a qualitative methodology. The staff of the 15 university libraries and their libraries were selected as the population of the study. The University of Kelaniya and Peradeniya were selected among the 15 university libraries as the sample and the sample comprised of the staff members using library classification in respective libraries. Primary data is collected using questionnaire, interview, observation and the secondary data will be collected using articles of research journals and the dissertation in the subject area.