[CASL-L] Genrefying Collection??

[Gail Nelson]

Wow!  When I first checked my email after a long, busy day, I saw only the
last few replies to the question I posted this morning.  I am truly
indebted to all of you who responded so thoughtfully to a question I have
pondering for a long while.  Your responses help me to think through the
pros and cons and consider how to proceed if I choose to go ahead.
Thank you all so much!
Gail Nelson
School Librarian
Harwinton Consolidated School (PreK-4)

On Wed, Dec 18, 2019 at 10:02 AM Hilary Gindi <hilaryj at gmail.com> wrote:

> I began the process last year. I labeled all of the books by genre, and
> then at the end of the year had a 4th grade class help me sort them out.
> This year, the whole fiction section is completely genrefied and I do
> notice an uptick in circulation.
> Everything is still cataloged the same way, except now the catalog entry
> adds a sublocation so that students know in which genre section to look.
> Students who would have used the catalog before to find a book will still
> do that. Students who wouldn't have used the catalog, and who were stuck
> going back to series they already knew, now see many more books that fit
> their interests. For example, where I used to have only a couple of Diary
> of a Wimpy Kid books on the shelf (as most were in circulation), now I have
> almost all of them on the shelf because their dedicated fans have branched
> out and are trying new things.
>
> Hilary Gindi
> Library Media Specialist
> Spencer Elementary School
>
> On Wed, Dec 18, 2019 at 9:32 AM Gail Nelson <gwnelson100 at gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> Good morning!
>>
>> I saw the recent discussion about genrefying fiction. After spending
>> years dug in defending alphabetical author (and fighting the knot in my
>> stomach when I think about making decisions about which categories books
>> belong in) I am considering dipping my toe in the genrefying waters. I
>> already do alternatives to make the books easier to find: displays, genre
>> labels on the spine, etc.
>>
>> I am still resistant because in my experience I can go into most public
>> libraries and independently find the book I am looking for.  In Barnes and
>> Noble I often have to ask for help to find a book.
>>
>> Does anyone have a great experience they would like to share after
>> genrefying? Persuasive reasoning why this is a good idea?  Contrary
>> thoughts are also welcome! I know this is a tall order, but I would
>> appreciate any input you are willing to share at a very busy time.
>>
>> Thanks so much!
>>
>> Gail Nelson
>> School Librarian
>> Harwinton Consolidated School
>>
>>
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>
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