2.2 Notation is the system of symbols used to represent the classes in a classification system.
In the Dewey Decimal Classification, the notation is expressed in Arabic numerals. The
notation gives both the unique meaning of the class and its relation to other classes. The
notation provides a universal language to identify the class and related classes, regardless
of the fact that different words or languages may be used to describe the class.
History, Current Use, and Development of the Dewey Decimal Classification
3.1 The Dewey Decimal Classification is a general knowledge organization tool that is
continuously revised to keep pace with knowledge. The system was conceived by Melvil
Dewey in 1873 and first published in 1876. The DDC is published in print and
electronic versions by OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc. OCLC owns all
copyright rights in the Dewey Decimal Classification, and licenses the system for a
variety of uses.