CUTTER-SANBORN THREE FIGURE AUTHOR TABLE SUPPLEMENTED WITH INDIAN NAMES

It is a popular misconception that book numbers have only a subsidiary role in library classification. The fact of the matter is that book numbers are indispensable for a  fine, precise and overall logical arrangement of documents on the library  shelves. The function of the book numbers begins from that of the class numbers ends. The present book has a twofold task. First, it provides an authentic version of the Cutter-Sanborn three-figure table as in India many unauthorized versions of doubtful pedigree are being used. As well known, and often rued,  these tables are not entirely  suitable for Indian names as these were designed for American and European authors. To mitigate the problem the table has been supplemented with Indian names added at their alphabetical place for ready use .This extended table has approximately 15850 entries (original table has  only 12361).  It is a time saver. Some new Western names have also been added  to facilitate the Indian librarians. But  the more important purpose is to provide a manual for the use of cutter tables and to  prepare shelf lists or to craft unique book numbers for various categories of Indian publications and subjects, especially biographies, literary works, classics, and works of prolific authors. Accurate shelf listing remains the most neglected work in the Indian libraries. This book addresses the problems of creating unique book numbers and consequently the call numbers in such areas. This book draws on best practices of designing accurate book numbers in the U S libraries. Aim is to amply illustrate the book numbering methods with examples of Indian subjects and authors. Book numbering is a craft, a skill and a science which Indian librarians must learn and bring home to their library users the way knowledge is organized   so  nuancedly  for them.