@misc{Niknia2025, author = {Niknia, Massoomeh}, title = {Custom Classification Systems in German Libraries: A Democratic Approach to Knowledge Organization}, series = {Themenkreis 6: Kulturgut und Kulturdaten erhalten und aktivieren/ Demokratisches Potential von Webarchievierung und Sacherschließung (25.06.2025, 09:00 - 10:00, Halle 4.1./ Raum IV (mit Streaming))}, journal = {Themenkreis 6: Kulturgut und Kulturdaten erhalten und aktivieren/ Demokratisches Potential von Webarchievierung und Sacherschließung (25.06.2025, 09:00 - 10:00, Halle 4.1./ Raum IV (mit Streaming))}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:0290-opus4-198855}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Library classification systems play a vital role in organizing and providing access to knowledge. In specialized libraries in Germany, particularly in fields such as art history and architecture, unique classification systems have been developed to meet the specific needs of collections and users. At the University of Cologne's art and architecture libraries, experts have created specialized classification systems. Similarly, during a recent visit to the Art and Museum Library, I found that they too use a custom system, raising the question of whether such systems reflect a democratic approach to organizing knowledge. These experiences prompted me to explore whether these systems could symbolize a democratic approach to knowledge organization in libraries. This paper examines the democratic potential of custom classification systems in libraries and compares them with standard classification systems (such as Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress) and local systems developed to address the specific needs of each collection. While standard systems contribute to global consistency, they may face limitations when it comes to accurately categorizing specialized topics. In contrast, custom systems offer more precise and relevant classifications tailored to the unique needs of each collection, thereby facilitating access to resources for specific user groups. Libraries play a crucial role in promoting democracy by addressing the diverse needs of users and ensuring equitable access to information. This paper argues that custom classification systems in libraries embody a democratic approach, as these systems prioritize users' unique needs and provide access to knowledge in ways that standard systems might not be able to achieve. Using examples from libraries in Germany, this paper evaluates the challenges and potential of custom classification systems and considers whether this approach fosters a more democratic and inclusive library experience or presents new challenges.}, language = {en} }