Library Distribution Guidelines

Hello,
Last week I received a great question from one of you wondering if there were guidelines as to the number of books required in each section particularly regarding school evaluations and inspections. What a great question! I did some research and found that the form used for many school evaluations ask you to put the total number of volumes in front of each section listed. Also they ask for a total number of titles (not including reference), total number of reference books, total number of denominational periodical subscriptions, and total number of secular magazine/newspaper subscriptions. The form has another page that gives a simple rubric for implementation in two areas: 1. Does the Media Center have a balanced collection of appropriate library materials and 2. Do personnel provide orientation in locating and evaluating information sources that support student learning.

According to the form that I have, it appears that ‘balanced’ is subject to interpretation. This is a good thing. I also did some research and found a source that has general guidelines for distribution of the library collection. Each section has recommended percentages for the Dewey sections. Keep in mind that these are general suggestions, not requirements. It would be interesting to check your collection and see what the percentages actually are. If you find that you are well below the recommendations, you might consider supplementing that particular section when you have money for it. If this is in your plans, it also looks good to the evaluation committee. You know where your library is weak and you have plans to improve it.

Dewey Subject Percentage of Collection
Classification K – 6 7 – 12

000 – 099 General works and Reference 2 – 5% 6 – 8%

100 – 199 Philosophy, Psychology .5% 1 – 2%

200 – 299 Religion & Mythology 1 – 2% 1 – 2%

300 – 399 Social Sciences, Folklore 5 – 10% 10 – 15%

400 – 499 Language .5% 2 – 5%

500 – 599 Pure Science 10% 5 – 10%

600 – 699 Applied Science 10% 5 – 10%

700 – 799 Fine Arts, Recreation 5% 5 – 10%

800 – 899 Literature 5% 5 – 10%
Fiction (often included in 800s) 20% 20 – 25%

900 – 999 History, Geography, Biography 20% 20%

E Easy books, Picture books 20 – 25%

The table above was found in the book Administering the School Library Media Center, fourth edition, by Betty J. Morris, page 339.

If you would like a copy of the form used for school evaluations, contact your local conference office. They can email this information to you.

I hope this information is helpful to you. And I also hope you have a great week – what’s left of it!
Audrey