- 期刊
New Classification Scheme for Chinese Libraries - A localised classification scheme in Taiwan
摘要
Apart from serving the pragmatic function of being a knowledge organization tool, library classification schemes are reflections of social construct and assumptions of the world. In Taiwan, the most commonly used system is New Classification Scheme for Chinese Libraries 2007 (NCSCL). It is a scheme tailored for Taiwanese libraries; carved to fit the region's unique political and cultural landscape. With supports from the local institutions and authority, NCSCL has the advantages of high uptake and interoperability for being a localised scheme, whilst it reveals evidences of how policy inflicted inherit biases on the scheme. This article set about exploring the scheme by outlining its historical context. It proceeded to describe and evaluate it in terms of arrangement by a comparative analysis with reference to Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC). Subsequently, the author identified the strengths and weaknesses observed. The article concluded that a transparent conceptual and philosophical foundation is necessary for an ethical classification system which caters end-users' needs.