IMPROVING THE ORGANIZATION OF VERTICAL FILES THROUGH CONTENT ANALYSIS

This study presents a content analysis of a library's vertical file collection, focusing on the classification and organization of its materials. Vertical files—collections of ephemeral materials such as pamphlets, clippings, and flyers—offer rich, locally relevant content that remains underutilized due to inadequate categorization. Findings indicate that while the collection reflects a wide array of timely and socially relevant topics, the current subject headings are often overly broad, outdated, or misaligned with actual content, resulting in inefficient access and retrieval. Thematic overlaps and lack of a standardized classification framework further hinder discoverability. The study concludes that a restructuring of the system is needed to enhance usability. Recommendations include subdividing broad categories, introducing new subject headings for emerging issues, and adopting standardized classification schemes such as the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH). These improvements aim to ensure sustained relevance, accessibility, and adaptability of the vertical file system in modern library practice.