The spelling of "classified catalog" follows standard English phonetic rules. "Classified" is spelled with a hard "c" sound, as well as a long "i" sound and a short "i" sound. The IPA transcription for "classified" is /ˈklæs.ɪ.faɪd/. "Catalog" is spelled with a hard "c" sound and a long "o" sound. The IPA transcription for "catalog" is /ˈkæt.ə.lɔɡ/. When combined, the two words form a compound word that is written as "classified catalog" and pronounced as /ˈklæs.ɪ.faɪd ˈkæt.ə.lɔɡ/.
A classified catalog is a type of catalog organized according to predetermined categories or subjects to enable users to locate materials quickly and efficiently. It is a systematic arrangement of items, typically found in libraries or databases, that classifies resources based on specific subject headings or classifications.
In a classified catalog, materials such as books, journals, periodicals, audiovisuals, and other resources are grouped into distinct categories based on their subject matter or topic. These categories are organized alphabetically or numerically, with each category assigned a unique code or heading. Within each category, resources are further arranged in a specific order, typically by author, title, date of publication, or call number.
The primary purpose of a classified catalog is to facilitate the retrieval of materials by providing users with a structured and logical arrangement of resources based on their topical relevance. By sorting items into different subject headings or classifications, users can quickly identify and locate materials related to a particular subject or topic of interest.
Classified catalogs are widely used in libraries and information centers to streamline the search process, enabling users to navigate through the vast collection of resources more effectively. They serve as an essential tool for librarians, researchers, and library patrons, ensuring easy access to relevant materials and promoting efficient information retrieval.
The etymology of the word "classified catalog" can be understood by examining the origins of each component of the term individually.
1. Classified: The word "classified" comes from the Latin root "classis", which means a division or group. It evolved in English to refer to the categorization or division of information into specific classes or categories. In the context of a catalog, "classified" implies that the items listed in the catalog are organized according to specific classifications or categories.
2. Catalog: The word "catalog" has a Greek origin. It comes from the Greek word "katalogos", which means a register or a list. It further derives from the combination of "kata", meaning "down" or "towards", and "legein", which means "to choose" or "to gather". In its essence, a catalog is a systematic and comprehensive list that brings together information about various items or resources.