This book, originally published in two volumes, is a supplemental textbook meant for a course titled “Practical Subject Indexing”. The structure of this book is what sets it apart from other introductory texts. The book is organized by frames (there are no page numbers) that can be anywhere from a few sentences to a few pages in length. The frames are meant to be read linearly unless directed otherwise. Many frames include questions that the reader should be able to answer if he or she has read the material thoughtfully. The answer directs the reader to a particular frame, which will either confirm a correct answer and continue on with the lesson, or inform the reader that his or her answer was wrong and instruct the reader where to return to review the correct information. Every reader will have a different experience with the book depending on his or her competency and willingness to play along.
The two most prominent sections cover Colon Classification and the Universal Decimal System (UDC). Colon Classification is used to “introduce the techniques of practical classification and to demonstrate some of the principles of classification.” The authors provide a good introduction to the scheme by summarizing the structure of the 6th edition as well as the classification schedules, which is a good primer on Ranganathan’s system. Section 4 explores the UDC, of which the authors expect the readers to have a copy of the 3rd abridged edition (for the course). Although the section provides a good summary and introduction to UDC’s scheme, it is difficult to follow the frames without the required text. For anyone looking to learn about these two specific systems, these sections do a good job of introducing the theory, the basic characteristics of the scheme, and how to create appropriate numbers.
As a whole, this introductory text still remains relevant nearly thirty years later. Although some of the ideas of computer automation are outdated, the theory and practice of subject indexing is still applicable, and the interactive instructions make it easy for readers of any level to keep up with the material. ( )