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Dewey® Services


Licensing

Since the DDC system was created more than 135 years ago, it's easy to assume that the Dewey name is in the public domain. However, it never has been, and since 1988, OCLC Online Computer Library Center has held the trademark on the Dewey name.

If you have interest in licensing the Dewey name or classification numbers for a legitimate business purpose, please contact busdev@oclc.org first. We have established licensing arrangements that enable other organizations to use the Dewey name while protecting OCLC's trademark rights.

The Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system is the world’s most widely used way to organize library collections. The DDC constantly updates to enable better discovery across any topic in multiple languages. Because the DDC is easy to use, you can increase the visibility of your materials quickly and efficiently.

Service availability

  • Available everywhere

Learn more

Download the Dewey Services brochure

Download the Dewey Services brochure
Download the brochure (US Letter)
Download the brochure (A4)

Connect with English-language WebDewey users in the OCLC Community Center.

Upcoming events

Watch this space for more upcoming webinars

On-demand webinars

Watch this space for past and recorded Dewey Services events.

See all Dewey services events »

Recent news

The Dewey blog is a great source for news and views on classification issues as well as interesting and unusual DDC resources and curiosities. It's also a convenient way to share feedback directly to the DDC editors to help shape the future of the DDC.

All copyright rights in the Dewey Decimal Classification system are owned by OCLC, Inc. Dewey, Dewey Decimal Classification, OCLC and WebDewey are registered trademarks of OCLC, Inc.