Showing papers on "Cataloging published in 1999"

Metadata: Cataloging by Any Other Name.

Abstract: Editor's Note: Be sure to take a look at this article's companion piece, also by Jessica and Susan, entitled \"Metadata Projects and Standards,\" for an overview of the variety of emerging and often conflicting projects for standardizing electronic resources. Also see the extensive list of metadata project and resource links referenced in the text. For a look into how an organization actually applies a metadata scheme to its own corporate intranet, read Kelly Doran's piece, \"Metadata for a Corporate Intranet,\" in this issue.

A comparison of the two traditions of metadata development

Abstract: Metadata has taken on a more significant role than ever before in the emerging digital library context because the effective organization of networked information clearly depends on the effective management and organization of metadata. The issue of metadata has been approached variously by different intellectual communities. The two main approaches may be characterized as: (1) the bibliographic control approach (origins and major proponents in library science); and (2) data management approach (origins and major proponents in computer science). This article examines the different conceptual foundations and orientations of the two major approaches contributing to the metadata discussion. An examination of the on-going efforts to establish metadata standards, and comparison of different metadata formats, supports a proposal for an integrated concept of metadata to facilitate the merging of the two approaches.

Metadata elements for object description and representation: a case report from a digitized historical fashion collection project

Abstract: This project's goal is to develop a catalog for a digitized collection of historical fashion objects held at the Kent State University Museum and to analyze and evaluate how well existing metadata formats can be applied to a fashion collection. The project considered the known and anticipated uses of the collection and the identification of the metadata elements that would be needed to support these uses. From a set of 90 museum accession records, 42 fashion objects were selected for cataloging. Three metadata treatments were created for these 42 items using (a) the Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules (AACR) in use with the United States MAchine-Readable Cataloging (USMARC) formats, (b) the Dublin Core set of elements designed for minimal level cataloging, and (c) the Visual Resources Association (VRA) Core Categories for Visual Resources created for developing local databases and cataloging records for visual resources collections. Comparison and analysis of the formats resulted in the adoption of a modified VRA metadata format to catalog the entire digitized historical fashion collection.

Web-based OPACs: Between Tradition and Innovation.

Abstract: Developments in information technology have propelled the implementation of OPACs available via the Internet. The article analyzes the change that these OPACs have represented to the structure, administration, and maintenance of the catalogs; the retrieval systems; and the user interfaces. The persistence of traditional practices in the structure and organization of information prevents OPACs from becoming truly innovative tools. The structure of databases is examined, as are the traditional principles that have governed systems development. Also discussed are the repercussions of the application of rules and formats that were developed for manual systems and that are no longer appropriate within the new technological environment surrounding us. The implementation of automated online public access catalogs (OPACs) has clearly been influenced by developments in information technology, much in keeping with the OPACs' status as information resources. In principle, any innovative environment is expected to produce innovative products, in form as well as in function. Nevertheless, Web-based OPACs, in spite of having been developed in a technological environment, cannot really be considered innovative since their fundamental structure as well as their maintenance and administration faithfully reflect the basic principles of library tradition. In fact, a similar trend took place with first-generation automated systems, which used innovative (at that time) technology, but persisted in maintaining the traditional concepts of the library catalog. First-generation OPACs adapted a new technology, but did not improve upon traditional manual catalogs, of which they were a true reflection. It was only through pressure from the information industry that these first catalogs were displaced and converted into second generation OPACs, incorporating information retrieval systems similar to those of commercial database distributors.(1) The Internet development has now propelled the implementation of catalogs into this new medium. It can be said that Web-based catalogs represent an advance over the equivalent catalogs available in local networks or via telnet access. Web-based catalogs, like all library catalogs, basically fulfill two functions: locating works based on known details and identifying which documents in the database cover a given subject. However, users of these tools must overcome problems of both a mechanical and conceptual nature.(2) This is especially true in the case of subject-based information access, the most highly used type of topic searching and, at the same time, the most problematic.(3) As Larson described, the OPAC user becomes like Ulysses when, on his return to Ithaca, he must cross the Strait of Messina.(4) In order to do so, Ulysses must avoid running aground on the rocks guarding the goddess, Escila. At the same time he has to avoid being trapped in the whirlpool caused by the goddess Caribdis, as she drank the waters of the lagoon. Crashing into the rocks is analogous to misdirected subject searching, whereas the whirlpool stands as a metaphor for information overload. Up until the present, research into improving OPACs has centered, principally, on the problems that result from the inadequacy of end-user interfaces, as well as from retrieval systems based on searching procedures such as single- and multiple-term matching and traditional browsing. Part of this body of research leans toward the development of interfaces that enhance and facilitate the dialogue between user and system, an area in which normalization and homogenization play a determining role. Other research has come to favor the development of new mechanisms for information access and retrieval, capable of overcoming the limitations of classic Boolean logic or exact matches, for example. Nevertheless, there have not been many efforts, until a few years ago, aimed at designing databases with a record structure different from the MARC format whose own structure reflects an organization of data based on existing cataloging rules. …

End-user understanding of Subject Headings in Library catalogs

Abstract: In this article, we report on the first large-scale study of end-user understanding of subject headings. Our objectives were to determine the extent to which children and adults understood subdivided subject headings and to suggest improvements for improving understanding of subject headings. The 1991 Library of Congress Subject Subdivisions Conference suggested standardizing the order of subject subdivisions for the purpose of simplifying subject cataloging, which served as the impetus for the study. We demonstrated that adults understood subject headings better than children; however, both adults and children assigned correct meanings to less than half of the subject headings they examined. Neither subject heading context nor subdivision order had an effect on understanding. Based on our findings, we challenge the library community to make major changes to the Library of Congress Subject Headings system that have the potential to increase end-user understanding of subject headings.

A guide to the Library of Congress classification

Abstract: Completely updating Immroth's Guide to the Library of Congress Classification (Libraries Unlimited, 1990), Chan's work adheres to the purpose of previous editions-to provide readers with a basic understanding of the Library of Congress Classification system and its applications. After introducing the classification and giving a brief history of its development, the author presents readers with the general principles, structure, and format of the scheme. She then discusses and illustrates the use of tables. In an entire chapter that is new to this book, Chan provides a general discourse on assigning LC call numbers. Discussion of applications is continued with emphasis on individual classes and specific types of library materials. Appendixes include tables of general application and models for subarrangement of divisions and topics within disciplines. Throughout the book, examples appear, taken from recent Library of Congress Machine-Readable Cataloging (LC MARC) records. A bibliography lists selecte

Metadata or Cataloguing?: A False Choice

Abstract: Libraries, their collections, and bibliographic control are essential components of the provision of access to recorded knowledge. Cataloguing is a primary method of biblographic control. Full or traditional cataloguing is very expensive, but relying on keyword searching is inadequate. Alternatives for a solution to cataloguing needs for electronic resources including the use of metadata and the Dublin Core are examined. Many questions exist regarding the long-term future of today's electronic documents. Recommendations are made for preserving recorded knowledge and information in the electronic resources for future generations.

Comparison of required introductory cataloging courses, 1986 to 1998

Abstract: Cataloging is an important part of library education. Concerns about the declining number of required introductory cataloging courses led to this study in which data collected from library school bulletins were compared to data gathered in a similar 1986 study. Results indicate that the number of required iniroductory cataloging courses has dropped.

Resource discovery, interoperability and digital preservation: some aspects of current metadata research and development

Abstract: The UK Office for Library and Information Networking are engaged in a wide range of work in the area of metadata, in cooperation with various partners. Projects on metadata for Internet resource discovery, interoperability and digital preservation all point to the continuing need for something like traditional library services to organise, access and preserve networked information.

Do Librarians Understand the Subject Headings in Library Catalogs

Abstract: "Understanding Subject Headings in Library Catalogs" is the first large-scale study of understanding of subject headings. Its objectives were to determine the extent to which library users and librarians understood subdivided subject headings and to suggest approaches to improving subject-heading understanding. The impetus for the large-scale study was a recommendation of the Library of Congress (LC) Subject Subdivisions Conference that suggested standardizing the order of subject subdivisions for the purpose of simplifying subject cataloging. Here we focus on study findings about subject heading understanding and reference and technical services librarians. Not only did the study provide data and analyses to determine whether standardizing subdivision order would adversely affect understanding of subject headings, it examined whether reference librarians understood subject headings better than technical services librarians, whether subject heading context had an impact on understanding, and how the incorrect meanings librarians assigned to subject headings deviated from an expert's meanings. Based on the study's findings, the researchers challenge the library community to make major changes to the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) system, expand exposure to LCSH in library school programs, and improve the tools that technical services librarians use in applying subject headings to library catalog records.

Guidelines for OPAC displays

Abstract: This paper describes the IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions) guidelines for librarians charged with customizing OPAC (online public access catalog) software and vendors and producers of this software The guidelines are intended to apply to all types of catalog, including World Wide Web-based catalogs, GUI (graphical user interface)-based interfaces, and Z3950-Web interfaces The focus is on the display of cataloging information (as opposed to circulation, serials check-in, fund accounting, acquisitions, or bindery information) The intent is to recommend a standard set of display defaults, defined as features that should be provided for users who have not selected other options, including users who want to begin searching without much instruction The guidelines are divided into principles (general statements of the goals of the guidelines) and recommendations The recommendations are organized based on the four main types of searches that users conduct in library catalogs: (1) for the works of a particular author or other creator; (2) for a particular work; (3) for works on a particular subject or in a particular form or genre; and (4) for works that take a particular disciplinary approach Several controversies related to OPAC displays are also addressed (MES) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document Guidelines for OPAC displays 65tnference Programme and Proceedings http://wwwiflaorg/IV/ifla65/papers/098-131ehtm

Factors to be considered in the selection and cataloging of Internet resources

Abstract: Internet resources have become a standard part of the resources offered by many libraries. Despite this fact, issues surrounding the selection of these resources, as well as providing access to them through cataloging, continue to present problems for libraries. Since Internet resources are not published or made available to libraries in the same manner as traditional print materials, there are many more factors to be considered in the selection process. The decision to catalog Internet resources presents a number of challenges to libraries as well. Decisions must be made as to what types of Internet resources will receive cataloging, and what information should be included in the bibliographic record. Cataloging decisions are further complicated by the fact that long‐standing cataloging conventions do not readily apply to Internet resources.

Where Does AACR2 Fall Short for Internet Resources

Abstract: While the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules, Second Edition(AACR2) has served well for all kinds of new information packages as they have been developed since the inception of AACR2 in 1978, the Internet is presenting challenges that are not as readily soluble. Five of the major problems for catalogers are discussed: What is an information package? What is a chief source of information? What is a new edition? Are all Internet resources “published”? Why a “Rule of 3”? Some issues and problems are discussed and some recommendations are made.

Metadata : Cataloging by any other name... : Special Intranet section

Abstract: Vue d'ensemble sur les metadonnees : definition, creation, effet sur la recherche d'informations, normalisation (Dublin Core)

A Guide to the Library of Congress Classification. Fifth Edition. Library and Information Science Text Series.

Abstract: Completely updating Immroth's Guide to the Library of Congress Classification (Libraries Unlimited, 1990), Chan's work adheres to the purpose of previous editions-to provide readers with a basic understanding of the Library of Congress Classification system and its applications. After introducing the classification and giving a brief history of its development, the author presents readers with the general principles, structure, and format of the scheme. She then discusses and illustrates the use of tables. In an entire chapter that is new to this book, Chan provides a general discourse on assigning LC call numbers. Discussion of applications is continued with emphasis on individual classes and specific types of library materials. Appendixes include tables of general application and models for subarrangement of divisions and topics within disciplines. Throughout the book, examples appear, taken from recent Library of Congress Machine-Readable Cataloging (LC MARC) records. A bibliography lists selecte

Paraprofessional Catalogers in ARL Libraries

Abstract: The authors conducted a survey of ARL member libraries to identify the minimum education and experience required of paraprofessional catalogers. The majority of surveyed libraries responded that they use paraprofessionals to catalog various types of materials. A higher number of libraries use paraprofessionals in copy cataloging than in original cataloging. Although no single model of education and training for paraprofessional catalogers exists, certain patterns emerge. The educational expectations for copy catalogers are lower than those for original catalogers. Training takes place on the job. The library profession is not as far along in developing structured paraprofessional degree requirements along the same lines as other professions, such as law or medicine.

Branching Out: Cataloging Skills and Functions in the Digital Age

Abstract: Librarians ereate metadata including cataloging to manage and provide access to collections. Two recent technological developments, the explosion in electronic publishing and the conversion of metadata previously unavailable online into machine-readable form, are providing challenges to cataloging. Disparate types of resources, such as images and museum objects, archives, and library collections in print and electronic form, must be brought together in a coherent information environment. While catalogers exclusively cannot do these tasks, they and their skills are essential to bring order out of the chaos of the many different access systems.

How far have we come? Benchmarking time and costs for monograph purchasing

Abstract: The University of Oregon Library System conducted a benchmark study during autumn 1997 to determine time and costs for monograph purchasing, cataloging, and processing. The goals of the study were first to assess if it would be cost effective to contract out some or all of the cataloging and final processing for some monographs, and secondly, to provide data that could be used as a management tool and shared with other libraries. The acquisition and QuickCat costs per unit for various types of purchases were calculated showing that cost alone would not be a sufficient reason to outsource or purchase shelf-ready books. However, opportunity costs should also be considered. Additionally, the data are compared with a task analysis study conducted in 1982/83, just prior to automating.

Web lists or OPACs: can we have our cake and eat it, too?

Abstract: For years, libraries have provided multiple and redundant access to new media in the form of catalog entries (prepared by technical services librarians) and separately maintained lists (prepared by public services librarians). Debates have raged over which method of access serves users best. This pattern persists as libraries provide access to electronic resources via Web lists and (in some cases) the OPAC. At VCU, the duplication of effort was minimized when the same database was used to generate Web lists of electronic journals (specifically full-text journal titles available through aggregator databases) as well as MARC records for the catalog. Additional collaborative projects are underway to use Web-searchable databases as a source for catalog records. Perhaps, instead of continuing to debate the merits of the list versus the OPAC, we can use current technologies to help us serve the user in both ways without duplicating effort and maintaining redundant data.

Insourcing the Web.

Abstract: Inspires patrons' respect for their local cybrarians. Many libraries are struggling to find the best way to deal with Internet resources. Among the quandaries they must resolve are whether we should just turn patrons loose with Internet browsers or include electronic resources in our electronic catalogs. And if we catalog them, should we include each item in our online database subscription collections, compile lists of URLs on our home pages, or just make available site lists that other libraries have already compiled? At the Nashville State Tech Library we decided in 1996 to make Internet resources available by combining the last two options. With no thorough plan for developing or enhancing our existing collec tion, we added Internet resource links to our home page (www.nsti. tec.tn.us/library/) rather haphazardly and NSTL staffers began creat ing personal bookmark files, albeit unorganized and not widely shared. Nonetheless, students and faculty alike used the resources heavily and enthusiastically. We quickly made a discussion of Internet resources a part of library orientation. Naturally, there was an uncomfortable side effect: Many students were using our home page exclusively, thus ignoring the strengths of our physical collection. The an swer was simple: Add the World Wide Web to NSTL's holdings (library.nsti.tec.tn.us/ uhtbin/webcat). When the Nashville State Tech Library, a Sirsi Corporation (www.sirsi.com) cus tomer since 1984, first migrated to WebCat (the firm's Internet-based OPAC) in 1997, our primary intent was to make our catalog accessible at remote locations. But as we read the WebCat documentation, we began to realize the potential for providing not only catalog records but actual content through a Web-based OPAC; we were using only half of WebCat's power. By categorizing Internet resources, we reasoned, students and faculty at remote lo cations could conduct at least some prelimi nary library research before print resources arrived from the main library. So, we turned our efforts to doing those fundamental things for digitized resources that we have always done best for other media?selecting and cataloging the best and most appropri ate materials for our clientele.

New approaches in library networking : Reflections on experiences in South Africa

Abstract: Distils the views obtained from a number of conversations and interviews with staff associated with CALICO (Cape Libraries Co-operative) and GAELIC (Gauteng and Environs Library Consortium) during a study visit in December 1997. Notes the six library co-operatives in South Africa: FRELICO (Free State Library Co-operative); SEALS (South Eastern Academic Library System); CATNIP; EASEL(Eastern Seaboard Libraries); CALICO; and GAELIC. Presents two case studies of CALICO and GAELIC focusing on: missions; structure and management; and activities. Concludes that CALICO and GAELIC and the other library co-operatives and consortia in South Africa have been formed at a time when the challenges facing the new South Africa and, in particular, higher education in South Africa, are considerable. Their objectives and activities reflect the issues facing the management of library resources in higher education in South Africa, including the increasing cost of periodical subscriptions leading library managers to seek collaborative acquisitions strategies and to consider the potential of electronic periodicals and other forms of electronic document delivery.

Looking through users' eyes : What do graduate students need to know about Internet resources via the library catalog?

Abstract: A survey completed by graduate students at the University of Florida expressed their views of the usefulness of typical elements of description for Internet resources appropriate to their work or studies. The students indicated most support for inclusion of title, primary author, Internet address and summary. Other elements found very useful were subject, level of information, titles of related works in print, date created, date updated, access limits, additional authors, recommended software, system requirements, size of file, edition, frequency, and if graphics arc included. Overall, they showed a desire for full level descriptions of Internet resources.

Cataloging challenges in an Area Studies Virtual Library Catalog (ASVLC): Results of a case study

Abstract: This paper describes the combined experience of two research driven case studies that resulted in an Area Studies Virtual Library Catalog (ASVLC). The purpose of the catalog was to provide easy access to, and retrieval of, distributed Internet resources pertaining to four geographic regions: Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and South Asia. The case studies addressed the special considerations encountered in dealing with dynamic Web-based documents in a distributed virtual library. Our experience led to an understanding that collection guidelines for Internet sites must consider various document types available on the Web, document behavior, and document quality. We baselined quantities of Web documents reported by search engines to gain a general concept of document distribution by country, region, and language. Research was performed on Web document persistence to answer questions on catalog maintenance. Findings on document persistence were applied to collection guidelines. The record format for the catalog was modified to capture quality indicators about the Web document being described and new metadata forms to better meet the needs of the end user. By incorporating commercial, off-the-shelf software and existing cataloging standards and practices with our findings, we developed a semi-automated methodology for record and catalog creation. Our findings emphasize the differences between the print or paper-based and Web-based electronic documents, the application of the new technologies, and the impact of the findings on creating a virtual library catalog.

Metadata: Projects & Standards.

Abstract: Description des differents projets de normalisation des metadonnees. Demande de vocabulaires normalises. Suivi des changements d'adresses Internet. Proposition DOI (Digital Object Identifier)