What's new this month at LVN? Take a look at the preview of our latest product "Rethinking the Call Number." Check out the review from Booklist. Maricopa Public Library (AZ) caused a stir in the library world when it replaced the familiar Dewey decimal system by housing materials in a “customer-friendly shelving approach” consisting of word-based neighborhoods. Circulation increased, and patrons’ feedback was positive. This video explores the reasoning behind the “Dewey-less” system, focusing on both the Maricopa system and Frankfort Public Library (IL). Backed by archival and contemporary library footage, onscreen narration offers information and helps transition to interviews with staff members, patrons, and a consultant who helped implement the Maricopa project. Other changes included breaking up long rows of shelving, lowering shelves to improve visibility, adding comfortable seating, and refining signage. Negative aspects, including initial staff wariness, are also discussed. Even if leaving Dewey behind is not an option, this offers plenty of ideas and suggestions about library layout, signs, shelving, and more. A terrific video for generating dialogue at staff development meetings, especially for libraries considering changes. — Lucinda Whitehurst |