Melvil Dewey
Early Life and Education
Melvil Dewey, born Melville Louis Kossuth Dewey on December 10, 1851, in Adams Center, New York, was an influential American librarian and educator. Dewey's early life was marked by a keen interest in organization and efficiency, traits that would later define his professional contributions. He attended Amherst College, where he developed his ideas about library classification and management. Dewey graduated from Amherst in 1874, having already begun to formulate what would become the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system.
Development of the Dewey Decimal Classification
The Dewey Decimal Classification system, first published in 1876, revolutionized the way libraries organized their collections. Dewey's system divided all knowledge into ten main classes, each with ten divisions, and each division into ten sections. This hierarchical structure allowed for the precise categorization of books and other materials. The DDC's simplicity and flexibility contributed to its widespread adoption, making it one of the most used library classification systems worldwide.
Professional Career
Librarianship
Dewey's professional career began at Amherst College, where he served as an assistant librarian. His innovative ideas quickly gained recognition, and in 1883, he was appointed as the chief librarian of Columbia College (now Columbia University). During his tenure, Dewey implemented the DDC and introduced several reforms to improve library services. He also founded the School of Library Economy at Columbia, the first institution dedicated to training librarians.
American Library Association
Dewey was a founding member of the American Library Association (ALA) in 1876 and served as its secretary and later as its president. His work with the ALA was instrumental in promoting library standards and professional development. Dewey's influence extended beyond the United States, as he played a key role in the establishment of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).
Contributions to Education
Dewey's contributions were not limited to librarianship. He was a strong advocate for spelling reform, believing that simplifying English spelling would improve literacy rates. Dewey's interest in education led him to establish the Lake Placid Club, a retreat and educational center in the Adirondack Mountains. The club hosted conferences on various educational and social issues, furthering Dewey's impact on American education.
Personal Life and Controversies
Dewey's personal life was marked by both achievements and controversies. He married twice, first to Annie R. Godfrey in 1878 and later to Emily McKay Beal in 1924. Dewey's professional relationships were often strained due to his autocratic management style and controversial views. He faced allegations of sexual harassment and was eventually forced to resign from several positions, including his role at the Lake Placid Club.
Legacy
Despite the controversies, Dewey's legacy in the field of librarianship and education remains significant. The Dewey Decimal Classification system continues to be a cornerstone of library organization. Dewey's advocacy for professional standards and education for librarians laid the groundwork for modern library science. His contributions to spelling reform, though less successful, reflect his broader commitment to improving communication and education.