Ontology & Knowledge Base
Libraries are organized systems of knowledge, built upon centuries of evolving practices for categorizing, describing, and providing access to information. Understanding the terminology and organizational principles behind library science helps patrons navigate resources more effectively and appreciate the complex infrastructure that makes modern library services possible. This comprehensive knowledge base explores the classification systems, technical vocabulary, and conceptual frameworks that underpin the Miami-Dade Public Library System.
Library Classification Systems
Classification systems are the organizational backbone of library collections, arranging materials by subject to facilitate discovery. These systems use alphanumeric codes to place each item in a precise location within the library's physical and virtual spaces.
Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
The Dewey Decimal Classification, developed by Melvil Dewey in 1876, is the most widely used library classification system in the world. MDPLS uses DDC to organize its nonfiction collections, dividing human knowledge into ten main classes, each represented by a hundreds digit:
Each main class is further divided through decimal extensions. For example, within the 600s (Technology):
- 610 - Medicine and health
- 629.8 - Automatic control systems and robotics
- 641.5 - Cooking and food preparation
- 649.1 - Child rearing and home care of persons with disabilities
The Dewey system's strength lies in its hierarchical structure, allowing browsers to move from general to specific topics within the same shelf area. However, critics note its Western-centric origins and occasional difficulty accommodating emerging subjects.
Library of Congress Classification (LCC)
While MDPLS primarily uses Dewey for general collections, academic and research libraries often employ the Library of Congress Classification system. LCC uses letters rather than numbers as its primary divisions:
- A - General Works
- B - Philosophy, Psychology, Religion
- C-F - History
- G - Geography, Anthropology, Recreation
- H - Social Sciences
- J-K - Political Science and Law
- L - Education
- M - Music
- N - Fine Arts
- P - Language and Literature
- Q - Science
- R - Medicine
- S - Agriculture
- T - Technology
- U-V - Military and Naval Science
- Z - Bibliography and Library Science
LCC's alpha-numeric structure allows for greater specificity in certain subject areas, particularly law, history, and literature. The Main Library's reference collection and special collections may use LCC for certain materials.
Genre and Format Classification
Beyond subject classification, libraries organize materials by format and genre:
- Fiction: Typically arranged alphabetically by author's last name
- Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction: Often separated into genre sections
- Graphic Novels: Frequently shelved separately from traditional books
- Large Print: Distinct collections for visually impaired readers
- Audiobooks: Organized by format (CD, Playaway) then by genre/author
- World Languages: Separate collections by language, then by classification system
Library Services Terminology
Circulation Services
Circulation: The department responsible for checking materials in and out, managing patron accounts, and handling renewals and holds. Circulation staff are often the primary point of contact for library visitors.
Check-out/Loan Period: The duration for which materials may be borrowed. At MDPLS, typical loan periods are:
- Books: 3 weeks
- New books: 2 weeks
- DVDs: 1 week
- Magazines: 1 week
Renewal: Extending the loan period for an additional term. Most MDPLS materials can be renewed up to 5 times if there are no pending holds from other patrons. Renewals can be done online, by phone, or in person.
Hold/Reserve: A request to be notified when a checked-out item becomes available. When the item is returned, the requesting patron is notified and typically has 7 days to pick it up. MDPLS allows patrons to place holds on items at any branch and choose their preferred pickup location.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL): A service that allows patrons to request materials from other library systems when MDPLS does not own the item. Through Florida's statewide resource sharing network, patrons can access millions of additional titles.
Fine: A monetary penalty for overdue materials. MDPLS has eliminated overdue fines for most materials, though replacement costs are charged for lost or damaged items.
Reference and Information Services
Reference Desk: The service point where librarians assist patrons with research, answer questions, and help locate information. Reference librarians are trained in search strategies and information evaluation.
Reference Interview: The conversation between a librarian and patron to clarify information needs. Through skilled questioning, librarians help patrons articulate exactly what they're looking for and identify the best resources.
Information Literacy: The ability to find, evaluate, and use information effectively. Libraries promote information literacy through instruction in research skills, source evaluation, and critical thinking.
Reader's Advisory: Service helping patrons find books and media based on their interests and preferences. Librarians use their knowledge of genres, authors, and reading trends to make personalized recommendations.
Collection Development
Collection Development: The process of selecting, acquiring, evaluating, and removing materials from the library collection. Librarians use community input, circulation data, reviews, and professional judgment to build collections that serve diverse needs.
Weeding/Deselection: The systematic removal of outdated, damaged, or unused materials from the collection. Regular weeding ensures shelf space for new materials and maintains collection quality.
Acquisitions: The process of purchasing and processing new materials for the collection. This includes ordering, receiving, cataloging, and preparing items for circulation.
Digital Resource Terminology
E-Content Platforms
E-book: An electronic version of a printed book that can be read on computers, tablets, e-readers, or smartphones. MDPLS offers e-books through multiple platforms including OverDrive, cloudLibrary, and hoopla.
Digital Audiobook: An audio recording of a book that can be downloaded or streamed to devices. Unlike physical audiobooks on CD, digital audiobooks don't require separate players and can be accessed instantly.
Streaming Media: Audio and video content delivered over the internet in real-time without downloading. MDPLS offers streaming through Kanopy (films), hoopla (movies/TV), and Freegal (music).
Database: A searchable collection of digital information organized for efficient retrieval. Library databases contain articles, e-books, images, and multimedia that are not freely available on the web.
Access and Authentication
DRM (Digital Rights Management): Technology used by publishers to control the use of digital content. DRM on library e-books enforces lending periods and prevents unauthorized copying.
Authentication: The process of verifying that a user is authorized to access a resource. Library databases typically authenticate users through library card numbers, ensuring that only residents benefit from licensed content.
IP Authentication: Recognition of users based on their internet connection. When using library Wi-Fi, patrons may automatically gain access to certain resources without entering card numbers.
Single Sign-On (SSO): A system that allows users to access multiple services with one set of credentials. MDPLS implements SSO to simplify access to various digital platforms.
Metadata and Discovery
Catalog Record: A structured description of a library item containing author, title, subject, publisher, and other details that help users find and identify materials.
MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging): The international standard format for bibliographic data. MARC records enable consistent description and sharing of catalog information between libraries.
Subject Heading: A standardized term or phrase describing the content of an item. The Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) provide a controlled vocabulary for consistent subject access.
Tagging: User-generated keywords assigned to items, often seen in social cataloging platforms like LibraryThing and Goodreads. Tags complement formal subject headings with folksonomic organization.
Federated Search: A search tool that queries multiple databases simultaneously, presenting unified results. Discovery layers like Encore and Primo provide single-search access to library catalogs, databases, and digital collections.
Library Architecture and Spaces
Functional Areas
Stacks: The shelving areas where library materials are stored. Open stacks allow patrons to browse freely, while closed stacks (rare in public libraries) require staff to retrieve items.
Reading Room: A designated quiet area for reading, studying, and research. Reading rooms often feature comfortable seating, good lighting, and policies that minimize noise and disruption.
Program Room/Meeting Room: Multi-purpose spaces for library programs, community meetings, and events. These rooms may include audio-visual equipment, flexible seating, and presentation capabilities.
Computer Lab: Areas equipped with public computers, typically offering internet access, office software, and printing services. Computer labs may include both open access and scheduled training sessions.
Makerspace/Creation Station: Designated areas with tools for hands-on creation, including 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and audio-visual production equipment. MDPLS Creation Stations exemplify this concept.
Children's Area: A specially designed space for young patrons, featuring age-appropriate furniture, collections, and often play elements. Children's areas balance library use with developmental needs.
Teen Space: Areas designed specifically for adolescents, offering comfortable seating, relevant collections, and often technology and gaming equipment. Teen spaces recognize the distinct needs of this age group.
Accessibility Features
ADA Compliance: Architectural and service modifications ensuring access for people with disabilities. This includes wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, elevators, and assistive technology.
Quiet Study Rooms: Small, enclosed spaces for individual or small group study. Many branches offer reservable quiet rooms for focused work.
Collaborative Spaces: Areas designed for group work, featuring large tables, whiteboards, and technology for sharing screens and ideas.
Library Programming Terminology
Educational Programs
Storytime: Scheduled sessions where librarians read books aloud to children, often incorporating songs, fingerplays, and movement activities. Storytimes promote early literacy and school readiness.
Book Club: A regular gathering where participants discuss a selected book. MDPLS hosts book clubs for various genres, age groups, and interests, often in multiple languages.
Workshop: A hands-on educational session teaching specific skills. Library workshops cover topics like computer skills, crafts, writing, and business development.
Lecture Series: Presentations by experts on topics of community interest. Author talks, historical presentations, and expert panels fall into this category.
Community Engagement
Outreach: Library services delivered outside library buildings, including bookmobiles, pop-up libraries at community events, and partnerships with schools and organizations.
Pop-Up Library: A temporary library setup at community events, markets, or other gathering places. Pop-ups bring library services to where people already congregate.
Partnership Program: Collaborative initiatives between the library and other organizations. MDPLS partners with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies to extend services.
Popularity Paperback Program: An initiative placing paperback books in high-traffic community locations (barbershops, laundromats, cafes) for informal borrowing.
Professional and Administrative Terms
Library Personnel
Librarian: A professional with a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS) who selects materials, provides reference service, designs programs, and manages collections. In Florida, public librarians must hold state certification.
Library Associate/Assistant: Staff members who support library operations, often handling circulation, shelving, and basic reference questions. These positions may not require the advanced degree required for librarians.
Library Director: The chief administrator responsible for the overall management of the library system. The MDPLS Director reports to the Mayor and County Commissioners.
Library Board: An advisory body providing governance and policy guidance. While MDPLS operates under county government, many library systems have independent boards with governing authority.
Library Governance
Millage Rate: The property tax rate dedicated to library funding. In Miami-Dade, a dedicated library tax supports MDPLS operations.
Collection Policy: A formal document outlining the principles and criteria for selecting materials. Collection policies guide librarians' decisions and address intellectual freedom concerns.
Strategic Plan: A document outlining the library's goals, objectives, and strategies for a multi-year period. Strategic planning ensures library services evolve to meet changing community needs.
Service Population: The geographic area and number of residents a library system serves. MDPLS serves all 2.7 million residents of Miami-Dade County.