Showing papers on "Authority control published in 1989"

Authority Control Issues and Prospects

Abstract: Research on authority control reported in archival, library, and information science literature suggests that efforts to control topical subject terminology are inappropriate and ineffective in an archival setting because researchers are unlikely to use the same terminology as that contained in the documents, and because most users value precision over recall (inclusiveness) in their searching. The author argues that archival retrieval will be enhanced by placing more emphasis on increasing the number of access points and less on achieving consistency in indexing. He describes various kinds of authority files and identifies several (occupation, time period, geographic coordinates, form-of-material, and function) that offer the most promise. He advocates the use of existing reference files and cooperative development of new ones, to be used not only in the traditional authority-control sense but also as valuable information resources in their own right.

Authority Control in an International Context

Abstract: This paper traces the efforts made by IFLA (the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions over the past three decades to promote the concept of Universal bibliographic Control in relation to authorities and authority control. It covers the work done by various groups within IFLA to develop standards for personal and corporate name headings, for authority and reference entries, and for UNIMARC/Authorities. The paper concludes with a summary of possible models for the future development of a systems infrastructure for international authority control.

Research and Theoretical Considerations in Authority Control

Abstract: Research and recent "theoretical" discussions of authority control are synthesized and organized into the following groups: general overviews; need for research; need for unique access points for names; need for authority control outside traditional library catalogs; reference structure for names and its relationship to users' needs; authority control for works; authority control for subjects; need for authority files; and, technological considerations. Conclusions are drawn about the need for research in the area of file design.

Subject Access in a Bilingual Online Catalogue

Abstract: Canadian library records, bilingual by statute, are created according to a common set of rules and standards. Subject access to the catalogue remains language dependent. Even searches by classification in some OPACs rely first on an alphabetical index as an entering key. Fully bilingual OPACs with authority control and reciprocal references in one file have yet to appear. Thus far the Canadian Workplace Automation Research Center has produced ISIR/SIRI with an online bilingual thesaurus. The National Library of Canada has developed withh DOBIS a bilingual system providing automatic linkages between records and authority files. But true bilingual searching (a search in one language retrieving records in both languages) could be achieved by a built-in automatic translation module. Total accommodation of diacritical marks by terminal keyboards and display monitors is also a challenge to be met.

Failures in Subject Retrieval

Abstract: Finding books by subject in large libraries is a difficult task at the best of times. Since users seldom think of their topic in terms of library subject headings, they encounter problems in finding matches. Online catalogs have helped somewhat by allowing keyword searching and Boolean combinations. They have also perpetuated some problems (lack of authority control and of cross references) and created new ones, namely requiring users to acquire complex skills. Libraries need to look carefully at the MARC format and at enhanced and enriched subject approaches. Machine-generated links and leads can provide more paths and wider access to subject information.

Authority control and the authority file: a functional evaluation of LCNAF on RLIN

Abstract: The costs of authority control are high and the information provided in authority files is often duplicated in separate bibliographic files. Librarians need to examine the compatibility of traditional methods of authority control with the advanced capabilities of current computer systems. This study investigates the actual use of the Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF) by catalogers in an RLIN member library. Results show that some aspects of authority control could be expedited by changes in cataloging practice and search software.

Subject Access Literature, 1988

Abstract: Subject Access Literature, 1988 The focus of this article is a review of the subject access literature for 1988. English-language books, journal articles, CD-ROM, and microforms are included. Topics covered in this review include online subject access, standard subject heading lists, proposed alternatives to subject heading lists, authority work, classification schemes, and new product information. Most of these topics are not discussed as separate issues. Change is ongoing in the library profession, and many of the topics important to subject access are interrelated. The online environment changes the ways in which subject information is accessed and available. Online public access catalogs and new formats for old tools bring about and are the result of changes in librarianship and information services. ONLINE ENVIRONMENT Janet Swan Hill, "Cataloging and Classification," in The ALA Yearbook of Library and Information Services, v. 13 (Chicago, Ill.: American Library Assn., 1988), p. 99-101. Highlights developments in cataloging and classification in the areas of AACR2, special materials, ISBD, subject headings, classification, authorities, preservation microfilming, and awards. These topics are related to trends in library collection management and automation. Neal K. Kaske, "The Variability and Intensity over Time of Subject Searching in an Online Public Access Catalog," Information Technology and Libraries 7:273-87 (Sept. 1988). The percentage of subject searching in an online public access catalog (OPAC) at the University of Alabama was studied to learn if the use of subject searching by patrons varied over time. The research also provides management information on the utilization of the OPAC. "NACO Celebrates Tenth Anniversary," Library of Congress Information Bulletin 47, no. 4:27-29 (Jan. 25, 1988). The National Coordinated Cataloging Operation (NACO) was founded in 1977. One of the primary mandates of NACO is to facilitate the production of a nationwide authorities data file that would reduce duplication of effort among many libraries around the nation. Currently, members of NACO include four federal libraries, twelve state libraries, twenty-two university libraries, and four specialized libraries. J.E. Rowley, "Cat and Class in a Computer-Based Environment," Catalogue & Index 89:5-7 (Summer 1988). Describes how recent innovations and approaches to information retrieval underlie the way in which the teaching of cataloging and classification has evolved into a modern syllabus. Course requirements for compilation of bibliographic databases, including development of indexing systems, are given. LCSH Sanford Berman, "Consumer, BEWARE!" Technicalities 8, no. 5:13-14 (May 1988). Views on two separate issues are presented. First is an alternative response to a proposal for replacement of the 740 field by a 246 field orginating in a "MARBI Report to Online Audiovisual Catalogers." Next is comment on sexist headings in the LCSH. Examples of sexist terminology and missing terminology are listed. Sanford Berman, "Not Funny Any More," Library Journal 113:80 (June 1, 1988). A look at "antique, bizarre, clinical, embarrasing, and unhelpful" LC subject headings and possible replacements. One example: MEDICINE, MAGIC, MYSTIC, & SPAGYRIC (LC form) versus OCCULT MEDICINE (suggested replacement). Carolyn O. Frost and Bonnie A. Dede, "Subject Heading Compatibility between LCSH and Catalog Files of a Large Research Library: A Suggested Model for Analysis," Information Technology and Libraries 7:288-99 (Sept. 1988). Assigned topical and geographic subject headings from a sample of the University of Michigan library's catalog were analyzed to determine the degree of match with LCSH, 10th edition. The analysis was to identify types of heading conflicts that lend themselves to automated subject authority control. …

The Virginia Tech Library System (VTLS)

Abstract: The Virginia Tech Library System is an integrated library system supporting cataloging, authority control, serials control, circulation, reserve room, acquisitions, document delivery, online public‐access catalog, keyword searching with Boolean operators, and statistics reporting. It runs on the Hewlett‐Packard HP/3000 line of computers. Initially installed in 1975, there are currently 104 users. Sidebars discuss: The Vanilla Network; LINNEA—the library information network for Finnish academic libraries; and the statewide information and referral service at Cabell County Public Library (West Virginia).

Authority control on the Geac Bibliographic Processing System

Abstract: This article describes the implementation of authority control on the Geac Bibliographic Processing System. An appendix includes screen displays and search results for headings under authority control in an online public access catalog.

First steps in planning the automation of a slide collection

Abstract: An analysis of the informational and operational systems present in a slide collection should precede selection or design of an automated system. This paper discusses problem areas which should be identified and stabilized before automating, and suggests approaches to gathering information for decision making. Reference procedures, circulation systems, authority control, subject access and other areas of concern are briefly mentioned. An annotated bibliography is included.

Building an on-line database system with BASIS

Abstract: Describes an online database management system (HP/TECHLIB) that has been designed and constructed using BASIS/TECHLIB. The system currently supports a full range of library functions, including cataloging, circulation, authority control, and retrieval activities. The selection process, database design, and enhancements to the software are also presented. In addition, technical problems encountered during the conversion of the VTLS (Virginia Tech Library System) data into HP/TECHLIB and lessons learned during implementation are provided. >