This project, undertaken during the summer of 2018 intended to build a system that is reflective of the mission and values of the Out On The Shelves Library, namely to “foster a free, accessible, and safe space for LGBTQ2IA+ people and their allies to discover and share stories and resources centering on LGBTQ2IA+ experiences” (About: Out On The Shelves) To this end, goals for the new system – approved by the volunteer team at Out On The Shelves Library during the planning process – include updated language, logical order and arrangement to enhance the browsing experience, as well as ensuring it is a living system which is responsive to context and community. The final goal is that a historical record will be maintained to promote transparency in how and why the system came to be the way it is. 

Here you will be able to view both the old and new systems, as well as a visual “tree” of the hierarchal structure of the new classification system. If you have any questions (academic, personal, or otherwise) or are interested in further information please feel free to email us at outontheshelveslibrary@gmail.com 

Old system, used prior to Fall, 2018: 

 

New system, implementation completed December, 2018:

 

Visual of the new system: