What is the primary purpose of the Sears List of Subject Headings?

The primary purpose of the Sears List of Subject Headings is to offer a list of headings and guidance for creating new headings. This tool is specifically designed to assist librarians and information professionals in organizing and providing access to a variety of resources, particularly in smaller libraries where more comprehensive systems like the Library of Congress Subject Headings may not be applicable or practical. The Sears List establishes an accessible framework for subject categorization, which facilitates the organization of library materials and helps patrons in navigating the collection more effectively.

In addition to providing established subject headings, it also serves as a useful resource for developing new headings that are relevant to local or specialized collections, thereby enhancing the overall cataloging process. This system of subject headings is especially beneficial in the context of children's literature and education, guiding how materials are categorized for young readers.