TARGET: Organizing state books

[Paul Adair <adair@EXECPC.COM>]

Dear Netters:
I'm about to do something heretical.  For the past three weeks, I have been
working with fifth graders on their state reports.  This has involved using
all kinds of resources, internet, CD-ROMs, encyclopedias, and of course the
state books.
The Dewey arrangement of state books makes no sense to the kids (I know
they're arranged by region, and I point that out,but still!)  In one of my
schools, there is no catalog for them to use, so they have to scan the
shelves. (That's a long sad story that should be corrected for next year.)
The books we use (mostly the From Sea to Shining Sea series) are skinny,
and we can't see the whole call number when we're putting them away without
turning every book.  All the books are 917 point something.
Here's the heretical part--I'm going to shelve them in alphabetical order
by state name.  This will make them easier for the kids to find and easier
for the aide and me to shelve.
Can you think of a good reason why I shouldn't do this?  I always tell the
kids when I teach nonfiction that the reason things are organized the way
they are is to help people find them.  This would help!
It's okay if you disagree with me, since I would like to have your
viewpoint, but please don't flame me.  Please reply directly to me at:
adair@execpc.com
Thanks for your time.  I'll post a hit of responses.
Sylvia Adair, Library Media Specialist
Lomira, Wisconsin
adair@execpc.com

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