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NATIONAL DAYEDUCATION

Dewey Decimal System Day

Today, we celebrate the impact of organized information on learning and literacy.

DEC10

Thursday, December 10Every year on December 10

days to go

Roots: Created by Melvil Dewey in 1876
Vibe: A celebration of literacy and organized knowledge
Also on Dec 10: Human Rights Day · International Animal Rights Day · Lager Day
Hashtag: #DeweyDecimalSystemDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Organize your shelf

Sort your home bookshelf by subject, library style, and admire the order.

WITH FRIENDS

Library trivia night

Quiz friends on Dewey categories over snacks and crown the librarian.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Sort the office library

Organize the office books by subject and label each section clearly.

Plan ahead

Dewey Decimal System Day is observed on December 10 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Dec 10this year

2027Fri, Dec 10

2028Sun, Dec 10

2029Mon, Dec 10

2030Tue, Dec 10

2031Wed, Dec 10

2032Fri, Dec 10

2033Sat, Dec 10

2034Sun, Dec 10

2035Mon, Dec 10

2036Wed, Dec 10

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Fast facts

Over 200,000Libraries worldwide use the system

Dewey's system organizes books into 10 main classes

The story

On December 10, we recognize Dewey Decimal System Day, a tribute to a classification system that revolutionized libraries across the globe. Melvil Dewey, a librarian and educator, introduced this system in 1876 to improve information access. Today, it serves as a backbone for over 200,000 libraries worldwide, facilitating research and learning.

Read the full story

The Dewey Decimal System categorizes books into ten main classes, ranging from 000 for generalities to 900 for geography and history. Each class is further divided into divisions and sections, enabling a structured approach to finding materials. This organization not only aids librarians but also empowers readers to navigate vast collections with ease.

In a world where information is abundant, the Dewey Decimal System remains an invaluable tool. It encourages users to explore different subjects, fostering a culture of curiosity and learning. By visiting your local library and engaging with various sections, you can experience the benefits of this organized approach to knowledge firsthand.

As we celebrate Dewey Decimal System Day, let us reflect on the importance of libraries in our communities. They are not just buildings filled with books; they are gateways to knowledge, creativity, and connection. By honoring this system, we acknowledge the role of libraries in shaping educated societies.

Did you know?

Melvil Dewey's Background

Melvil Dewey was an American librarian and educator who emphasized the importance of organizing information.

Dewey's Lifespan

Dewey lived from December 10, 1851, to December 26, 1931, leaving a lasting legacy in library science.

The First Library

The first library to adopt the Dewey Decimal System was the Amherst College Library in Massachusetts.

International Use

The system is used in libraries around the world, adapted for various languages and cultures.

Influence on Technology

The principles of the Dewey Decimal System have influenced modern digital cataloging systems and library databases.

Dewey Decimal vs. Library of Congress

While the Dewey Decimal System is widely used in public libraries, the Library of Congress Classification System is more common in academic libraries.

Dewey Decimal Day

Dewey Decimal System Day is celebrated annually on December 10 to honor the impact of this classification system.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHome to countless libraries, the Dewey Decimal System is widely embraced across the nation.
GBUnited KingdomMany libraries in the UK have adopted the Dewey Decimal System for organizing their collections.
CACanadaCanadian libraries utilize the Dewey Decimal System to enhance access to diverse literature.
AUAustraliaAustralian libraries leverage the Dewey Decimal System to aid users in finding information efficiently.
NZNew ZealandNew Zealand libraries also embrace the Dewey system for streamlined organization.
DEGermanySome libraries in Germany have incorporated the Dewey Decimal System alongside other classification methods.