Understanding the Dewey Decimal System
The Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) is a numerical system used by libraries worldwide to organize books and other materials according to subject matter. It assigns each topic a unique three-digit number, often followed by decimal extensions for greater specificity. This system allows readers to locate works efficiently and helps maintain a logical arrangement of knowledge.
Placement of Sports Books in the Dewey Decimal System
Sports-related works are primarily classified within the 790s section of the DDC, which is dedicated to “Recreational and Performing Arts.” More precisely, books on sports, games, and physical activities are grouped in 796, the subclass specifically assigned to Athletic and Outdoor Sports & Games. This section is further subdivided into specialized numbers for particular sports.
- 796.01–796.09: General topics on sports, including philosophy, psychology, and historical perspectives.
- 796.3: Ball games, such as basketball, soccer, and baseball.
- 796.4: Gymnastics and similar activities.
- 796.5: Outdoor life and recreational pursuits like hiking, camping, and fishing.
- 796.6: Cycling and vehicular sports.
- 796.7: Motor sports, including automobile and motorcycle racing.
- 796.8: Combat sports and martial arts.
- 796.9: Winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Examples of Dewey Decimal Numbers for Specific Sports
- 796.323: Basketball
- 796.332: American football
- 796.334: Soccer (Association football)
- 796.357: Baseball
- 796.362: Cricket
- 796.42: Track and field athletics
- 796.44: Gymnastics
- 796.522: Mountaineering
- 796.54: Hiking
- 796.61: Cycling
- 796.72: Automobile racing
- 796.73: Motorcycling
- 796.815: Judo
- 796.83: Boxing
- 796.912: Figure skating
- 796.935: Snowboarding
Dewey Decimal Use for Sports History and Biographies
Biographies of athletes often remain in the 796 category but may include an additional notation to reflect the biographical nature. For example, the number might be followed by “092” to denote personal narratives. Historical works about sports will often share the same classification as the sport they cover, ensuring readers can find them alongside related instructional or descriptive works.
Importance for Libraries and Researchers
The clear categorization of sports literature under the DDC benefits not only casual readers but also researchers, historians, and sports enthusiasts. Whether one seeks training manuals, analytical works, historical records, or biographies, the Dewey Decimal System ensures these materials are logically placed and easy to locate.
Conclusion
In the Dewey Decimal Classification, sports books are primarily housed in the 796 section, with detailed subdivisions for each sport and type of physical activity. This system provides an organized, predictable method for accessing sports literature in libraries worldwide, ensuring that readers can find relevant works efficiently.
