History
Before we begin learning about the Dewey Decimal System, we should take a minute to learn about the history and purpose of it. Melvil Dewey created the Dewey Decimal System in 1872. Click on the picture of him on the right so that he could tell you more about himself before you begin reading. Once you listen to the picture, think about and discuss with a friend why his contributions to the library were important. Then, continue reading below so that you can continue learning about Dewey and his work. |
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Melvil Dewey was born in New York on December 10, 1851. He attended Amherst College and worked as a library assistant. When he was working, he realized how poorly organized the library was. To fix the problem, he created the Dewey Decimal System. He was only 21 years old!
Later, he started the American Library Association and the Library Journal. He started the first library school at Columbia University. Dewey also improved many other parts of society. He was an extremely successful man.
Melvil Dewey died on December 26, 1931. He was 80 years old. He is most remembered for the Dewey Decimal System because it so drastically transformed the organization of the library. It can make the shelves turn from very messy to neat. Just put your mouse over the image below to see what the System can do!
Later, he started the American Library Association and the Library Journal. He started the first library school at Columbia University. Dewey also improved many other parts of society. He was an extremely successful man.
Melvil Dewey died on December 26, 1931. He was 80 years old. He is most remembered for the Dewey Decimal System because it so drastically transformed the organization of the library. It can make the shelves turn from very messy to neat. Just put your mouse over the image below to see what the System can do!
Now that you know that Melvil Dewey created the Dewey Decimal System in order to organize the library, continue to the organization page to read about how the System is organized.