Cutter-Sanborn: Three-Figure Author Table Supplemented with Indian Names

Abstract

It is a popular misconception that book numbers have only a subsidiary role in library classification.  The fact of the matter is that book numbers are indispensable for fine, precise and overall logical  arrangement of documents on the shelves. The function of the book numbers begins from that of the  class numbers ends. The present book has a twofold task. First, it provides an authentic version of the  Cutter-Sanborn three figure table as in India many unauthorized versions of doubtful pedigree are  being used. As well known, and often rued all these tables are not suitable for Indian names as these were designed for American and European authors. To mitigate the problem the table has been  supplemented with Indian names added at their alphabetical place for our librarians to readily use  the table. It is a time saver. Some new Western names have also been added in row to facilitate the  Indian cataloguers. But more important purpose is to provide a manual for the use of cutter tables  and prepare shelflists or to craft unique book numbers for various categories of Indian publications and subjects, especially biographies, literary works, classics, and works of prolific authors. Accurate  shelflisting remains the most neglected work in the Indian libraries. This book addresses the problems  of creating unique book numbers and consequently the call numbers in such areas. This book draws  on best practices of designing accurate book numbers in the U S libraries. Aim is to amply illustrate  the book numbering methods with examples of Indian subjects and authors. Book numbering is a  craft, a skill and a science which Indian librarians must learn and bring home to their library users the  way knowledge is organized so nuancedly for them.