Subject Design and Access in Children^s Digital Libraries: Supporting Inclusive and Open Knowledge
Sofia Nur Aisyah & Rahmi

National Library Of Indonesia
Universitas Indonesia

Abstract

Children^s digital libraries play a significant role as both information providers and learning environments that support the development of reading and digital literacy from an early age. However, the design of subject organization and access systems in these libraries remains a critical issue, particularly in ensuring the inclusivity and openness of knowledge. This study examines how subject design, cataloging practices, and access mechanisms in children^s digital libraries can support inclusive and equitable information access. The findings indicate that children^s digital libraries require user-centered designs that emphasize visual, thematic, and exploratory approaches rather than complex textual classification systems. While platforms such as ICDL provide open access to multicultural collections, inconsistencies in interface design and evolving user experiences may affect children^s engagement. This study highlights the importance of developing child-friendly cataloging systems, improving intuitive access, and ensuring equitable representation to support inclusive and open knowledge for all children.

Keywords: Children^s Digital Libraries, Cataloging Systems, Children^s Engagement, Digital Literacy.

Topic: Resilient Library and Information Ecosystems (Information literacy- Library Information Ecosystems- Library Resilience)