For those who may be curious about what happened to the graphic novel section of the library I’m interning at, after many weeks and a multitude of meetings later, there is finally a resolution to the madness. To recap, the debate was how the graphic novel section specifically in the Children’s department are to be organized…by title or author?
One question to consider is should the novels be easier for the librarians to find for patrons or for patrons to browse for themselves? Some graphic novels are better known for their titles whereas some are better known for their titles. Librarians are often more familiar with the authors of books they are finding for patrons and despite having a library catalogue for reference, this takes time. The less time it takes for a librarian to find a book, the better quality customer service they can provide. This is essential in an industry where the products are free and thus patron satisfaction is how a libraries keep their patrons supporting the library.
On the other hand, ease of accessibility of materials for the public is a fiercely protected mantra of the library science field. Although there are a few graphic novel authors who stand out, many graphic novel readers look for graphic novels via titles. Then there are graphic novel series to consider, which are often written by many different authors but are all under the same title or series.
If you are wondering how it is usually done at other libraries, the answer is both. According to the experience of my peers who have worked in various different public libraries, some organize graphic novels by title whereas some organize by author. So there is no “right way” to do this, only the way that specific library feels is best for their library and community. Finally, however, there was an agreement made. Taking both parties best interests into account, the department head decided to organize graphic novel series by their series title and stand alone graphic novels by author.
This might be considered to be a controversial decision that disrupts the integrity of library organization methodology due to its lack of consistency. However, for those open to bending the rules depending on the situation, this is actually a great option to consider. What really matters here is having the needs of both librarians and patrons met. This means that popular stand-alone books that are being requested by author will be found quickly and efficiently. Simultaneously, book series will be able to remain together in number order so patrons will be able to find the next one they are looking for with ease.
So what next? With the final decision made, all graphic novels have to be taken into tech services where the new call numbers for each book will be adjusted in the catalogue, new call number stickers will be added to the books, and returned to be re-shelved alphabetically according to call number. I had the pleasure of writing a record of the different call number changes as a reference guide for the other library branches to follow since all of the different branches have to be synchronized with the main branch. Once the list is complete, it will be sent to them so they can make the same changes to their graphic novel collection.
Shelf Adulation 