A previous post introduced the possibility of using DDC-based signage and QR codes to help patrons find works on the same phenomenon but from a different disciplinary perspective. The post also issued an invitation for a few libraries to participate in a pilot project to evaluate the usefulness of such signage.
We have been asked what the requirements are for participating in the pilot project. Here’s our sense:
1. You need to have a collection shelved by DDC numbers
2. You need to have an OPAC that can be searched by call number (Note 1. Sometimes such a search is possible, even if it isn’t advertised to users. Note 2. Of course you want users to be able to read the search results on their mobile device.)
3. You need buy-in from colleagues and the powers-that-be to put up signage in your stacks
4. You need to be willing to scan two documents we have put together of (a focused subset of) DDC numbers that are related by see or see-also references and to identify which links to related numbers and subjects make most sense for your patrons (Note. If your DDC number usage is not aligned with DDC 23, you may need to make some modifications in the relationships shown.)
5. You need to determine what you want your signage to look like and will be responsible for its production (we can give you some guidance, if needed, on how to produce the QR codes)
6. We would ask that you gather patron comments about the signage—what works, what doesn’t work, what can be improved, etc.—to share with us so we can share with others
7. If the signage is helpful to your patrons, we would love for you to promote this search enhancement through whatever channels make sense
There is no need for all the libraries in the pilot to stick to the same schedule, so we invite you to join the pilot whenever the time is right for you!
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