[3] In order to create her subject headings, Sears consulted small and medium-sized libraries throughout the country to discern patterns of usage.

In the third edition of the book (1933), Ms. Sears added a section called, "Practical Suggestions for the Beginner in Subject Heading Work."

These "Principles of the Sears List" were eventually published as a separate document and became a widely used teaching tool for library schools.

In subsequent editions of the List, Sears' subject headings have also been linked to appropriate Dewey Decimal Classification numbers.

Wilson to teach at Columbia University's School of Library Science, where she started the first graduate degree course in cataloging.

[2] After her death in 1933 at age 60, the book was eventually renamed in her honor to the Sears List of Subject Headings.