Whether you are a librarian brand new to the field or one that has a few years under your belt, you have undoubtedly faced the question, “To genrify or not to genrify”. That is certainly the question!
I have wrestled with this same question for years.. As any good librarian does when wrestling with a topic, I spent hours researching the topic and weighing the pros and the cons. In this article, I have gathered together some links to those resources that I relied on the most.
Ultimately, all of this research had given me the foundation in making my decision to genrify both my chapter book and easy picture book sections! I have not yet, however, been convinced to genrify the nonfiction section of the library!
Here is a mini bibliography of those articles that helped me the most!
The article from Alexandria compares the traditional Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system with genrefication for organizing library collections. Overall, the article presents genrefication as a modern alternative to Dewey Decimal, emphasizing its potential benefits for user engagement and library efficiency.
The article from American Libraries Magazine explores the shift from traditional Dewey Decimal Classification to genre-based organization in libraries. It describes how this change has led to increased engagement and satisfaction among patrons, as genre organization allows for a more intuitive and enjoyable browsing experience.
This article from the Research Journal of the American Association of School Librarians discusses research done to explain the benefits or disadvantages of genrefying the fiction section of elementary libraries.
Wondering about the reasons to choose genrefication, the planning process, the challenges that you may encounter, or whether or not you should genrefy the collection, you’ll want to read this article by DEMCO.
The all-inclusive guide by Follett’s Titlewave discusses every aspect of organizing a collection from defining genrification of literature, to preparing and planning, running reports to assist you in organization (if your district utilizes Destiny Library Management Systems), and lists of genres to use in the genrification process.
The blog post from Junior Library Guild outlines five reasons why librarians opt for genrefication in their school libraries. Overall, the post advocates for genrefication as a strategy to improve library services and support student literacy.
Madison’s Library discusses her positive stance on genrefication in school libraries, responding to common criticisms and concerns raised against it. The author, with experiences in both genrefied and traditionally organized library collections, addresses various objections to the genrification process.
In her article titled, “Genrefy Your Library, Mrs. Readerpants,,” outlines steps for implementing genrification in your library. There is a downloadable challenge to help support your venture. Additionally, she offers a SlideShare (with accompanying narration) to help guide you through the steps!
Renovated Learning offers librarians a step-by-step process for genrifying your school collection. I really appreciated how she broke it down.
This School Library Journal article does not minimize the daunting task that is genrefying a school library. Author April Witteveen openly talks about how difficult it is. She walks readers through the process though, offering tips, advice, and inspiration along the way. She also discusses the immense benefits of this type of collection organization and highlights the empowerment that students feel when they are able to browse the shelves and find a book that they are excited about.
