Introducing the Seymour Library Classification System

  • 10/15/2025
  • 15:13
  • Mary Lovell

Introducing the Seymour Library Classification System - graphic with photo of books that have been reclassified and an image of the color coding for the new system.

Nearly 150 years ago, Melvil Dewey introduced the Dewey Decimal System. A classification system that organizes nonfiction books into ten main classes based on subject, which many libraries have used ever since. But 150 years later, we see more of the limitations of this system than the benefits. After all, we now have the Internet, computers, and cell phones. Modern subjects don’t easily fit into the old system, and the traditional system can create barriers to access and unnecessary confusion for patrons. The Dewey Decimal System has outdated cultural perspectives and marginalizes or misrepresents other perspectives and topics. Careers have changed, views have changed, and our classification system should change as well.

Seymour Library is embarking on a project to revamp our nonfiction classification system. Starting this fall, we will slowly start rolling out our Seymour Library Classification System. Some things may be similar to before, but other areas will be quite different.

So what will this new system look like?

  • First, we will be using broad categories to separate the main sections of our nonfiction collection. Just as we separated the fiction books, think of this as a genre-fication of nonfiction.
  • Each category will also have a different color to help quickly identify its area.
  • Next, similar to Dewey, each section will have its own number (ex., History & Social Science: 900s).
  • Finally, just like before, each book will have its author (or editor or other main identifier).

For Example:

LANGUAGE ARTS & LITERATURE
804.3
Baker

This book will have a fluorescent pink label and be found in the Language Arts & Literature section under the number 804.3 and the author Baker.

We will also be changing the font and font size on our labels to a bold, sans-serif font in order to make the labels easier to read for those with low vision or neurodivergent reading complications (such as Dyslexia). 

There will also be wayfinding signs to help with browsing the collection and finding topics of interest. Staff will also be ready to answer questions and help find particular books as needed.

This reclassification project was developed from our strategic plan and its focus on maintaining a diverse and inclusive collection, increasing accessibility, and growing and sustaining readers. Funding for this project has been provided in part by a grant from the Cayuga Community Fund. 

Our categories, numbers, and colors, and a brief look at what’s in each category:

  • Technology & Engineering, 000s (000 – 099), Light Purple Label (Computers & technology)
  • Mind & Body, 100s (100 – 199), Fluorescent Yellow Label (Psychology, health and wellness)
  • Spirit, 200s (200 – 299), Aqua Label (Religion, spirituality, & paranormal)
  • Law & Criminal Justice, 300s (300 – 399), Blue Label (Laws, legal guides & true crime)
  • Education & Careers, 400s (400 – 499), Orange Label (AP class guides, test preparation materials, and information on different careers)
  • Math & Science, 500s (500 – 599), Purple Label (Math, space, and animals, including pets)
  • Home, 600s (600 – 699), Green Label (Personal finance, gardening, cookbooks, and home repair)
  • Arts & Recreation, 700s (700 – 799), Rose Label (Crafting, fine arts, music, and sports)
  • Language Arts & Literature, 800s (800 – 899), Fluorescent Pink Label (Book guides, writing guides, poetry, and literature)
  • History & Social Science, 900s (900 – 999), Red Label

We believe that the library is for everyone, and we hope that this project will help to make it more so.

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