Will Fiction Classification Schemes Increase Use

Abstract

This article attempts to determine if classifying fiction into genre areas can focus use by browsers who are subject to the effects of information overload. Such focus should in crease the circulation of classed titles by making it easier for browsers to choose these books. In an experimental study conducted in three public libraries in North Caro lina, the author found that browsers in large libraries can select the type of fiction they want more easily if the library classifies its fiction into genres. Browsers in very small li braries do not need such classification because they do not feel as much overload when making their selections. Two methods of fiction classification significantly increased use of classed titles: the simple spine labeling of classed works interfiled on the regular fiction shelves and physically sepa rating the classed works from the general fiction collection. Moreover, fiction classification alerted browsers to less popular works within a particular genre, thus lessening their reliance on a small number of popular authors and titles.

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