5 Tips for Organizing Your Library Collection

A well-organized library collection makes it easier for patrons to find what they need and helps your team manage circulation more efficiently. Here are five practical tips to get your collection in order.

1. Use Consistent Classification

Choose a classification system (Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, or even a simple genre-based system) and stick with it. SimpleLibrary supports flexible call number formats to match your preferred system.

Pro tip: Use our bulk editing tools to standardize call numbers across your collection.

2. Leverage Location Tags

SimpleLibrary's location feature lets you organize books by physical location. Common approaches include:

• By room or area: Children's Corner, Reference Section, Main Stacks
• By format: Hardcover, Paperback, Large Print, Audio Books
• By reading level: Early Readers, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Adult

You can even combine approaches: "Children's Corner - Picture Books"

3. Maintain Accurate Item Status

Keep your circulation data current by ensuring items are properly checked in and out. SimpleLibrary's real-time status tracking helps you:

• Know exactly what's available on the shelf
• Identify lost or missing items quickly
• Provide accurate availability information to patrons

4. Create Curated Collections

Use SimpleLibrary's tagging system to create virtual collections that cut across your physical organization:

• Staff Picks
• Award Winners
• Summer Reading List
• New Arrivals
• Seasonal Themes

These collections make it easy for patrons to discover great books without reorganizing your physical space.

5. Regular Weeding and Updates

Schedule regular reviews of your collection to:

• Remove damaged or outdated materials
• Identify popular items that need additional copies
• Discover gaps in your collection
• Update metadata for better searchability

SimpleLibrary's reports show you circulation patterns and aging items to guide your weeding decisions.

Putting It All Together

Organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Start with these five strategies and refine your approach based on your patrons' needs and your team's workflows.

Have questions about organizing your collection in SimpleLibrary? Contact our support team - we're here to help!