Practical Strategies for Cataloging Departments

Cataloging managers will find this book a valuable road map for navigating the metadata needs of the 21st-century library. Demand for instant access, 24/7. Outsourcing issues. Constantly evolving standards. How can catalogers create a flexible, Web 2.0-compliant, flexible, multi-metalingual cataloging department? A daunting challenge, definitely; but with the right guidance, any cataloger can get up to speed and handle these common and confusing problems. Each chapter of Practical Strategies for Cataloging Departments is authored or coauthored by a leader in cataloging, metadata practice, or education in these specialties. This book offers practical advice—based on direct experience—for facing the challenges of organizing information today. Topics include training, collaborating across the library, coping with changes in standards, making strategic selections of vendor cataloging products, developing cooperative organizations, and more. The specific techniques that will help catalogers meet the needs of 21st century patrons are emphasized.