Which of the following is the disadvantage of Dictionary Catalogue

The Correct answer is Excessive Cross-referencing.

Key Points

• Dictionary Catalogue:
  • A dictionary catalogue is a library catalogue where all entries—such as author, title, and subject—are arranged alphabetically, similar to a dictionary.
  • It includes four main groups of entries: authors and collaborators, titles, subjects, and cross-references, all arranged in one unified alphabetical order.
  • Some libraries may separate the entries into two parts: one for author and title entries, and another for subject entries.
  • This is known as a "divided catalogue," though it can require users to consult both sections to find a document.
• Merits:
  • Ease of Use: The alphabetical arrangement makes it simple for users familiar with the alphabet to find information.
  • Consolidation of Related Entries: Works by the same author, different editions of the same title, and translations can be grouped together, making it easy for users to find related documents.
  • Comprehensive Subject Coverage: Subjects that might be scattered in a classified catalogue are grouped together in a dictionary catalogue, providing a more holistic view of topics.
  • Direct Search: Users can search directly under specific subject names without needing to understand complex classification relationships.
  • Flexibility: New subject headings, like "artificial intelligence," can be easily added without waiting for an official authority list.
  • Cross-references: A variety of relationships between subjects (e.g., hierarchical, associative, synonyms) can be shown using cross-references.
• Demerits:
  • Scattered Subject Entries: The alphabetical arrangement can make it difficult to view all aspects of a subject, as related subjects are spread out.
  • Excessive Cross-referencing: To address this issue, cross-references are often used, but they can make the catalogue bulky.
  • User Confusion: Users may need to search multiple locations for entries related to a specific subject.