Role of classification schemes in organization of Islamic knowledge in libraries

Abstract

PurposeClassification systems play a fundamental role in the organization, display, retrieval and access to the knowledge materials in libraries. These systems have served the purpose adequately in most of knowledge areas; nevertheless, some grey areas lack proper place and enumeration in these systems. Islamic knowledge is among the areas that have not been properly addressed. The purpose of this paper is to examine this problem and indicate a potential solution.Design/methodology/approachThis paper expands on the author's earlier research which focused on Pakistan library collections. Empirical data have been collected from 16 LIS scholars who have interest in or expertise on this issue through interviews. Scholars are from Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UK, the USA and Canada. A review of the literature is also presented.FindingsA number of approaches have been taken to work around the deficiencies of the standard classification systems when it comes to Islamic knowledge and publications, including indigenous systems and expansions. Details of some of these are presented. A range of possible improvements to existing classification systems was suggested by scholars, and an outline of what is required in a new, independent system is discussed, along with ideas about the best way for this system to be developed.Originality/valueThe paper discusses an area of professional concern that has been discussed widely in Islamic countries, but only in a limited fashion outside of Islamic countries. Thus, the paper should be of interest to researchers and practitioners interested in cataloguing and classification theory.

Organization and usage of information resources at Deeni Madaris libraries in Pakistan

“…The reason behind this lack of implementation of international standards might be lack of standards that cover Islamic subjects. This result is consistent with the findings of Idrees (2013). Most of the libraries did not maintain catalogues for providing access to their users for the retrieval of library resources.…”

“…Most of the libraries crafted with Islamic literature devised their own standards of classification for the fulfillment of their local needs (Idrees, 2013). This local need-based development of Islamic classification schemes created confusion for the user of Islamic literature because the same materials of Islamic subjects have been assigned different shelf tags.…”

“…Shaukkat (1970) and Riazuddin (2002) proposed changes in notation specified for Islam in DDC. The classification scheme devised by Rehman et al (2003) has covered maximum aspects of Islam, but the order, concepts and format are many times illogical, confusing and irrational (Idrees, 2013). KAAU Library’s scheme, Ghaniul Akram scheme, Sheikh Ibrahim Scheme, etc.…”