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@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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