Cataloging and Classification

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Defines the principles and practices of library cataloging and classification, including the use of standardized systems such as Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, or local systems.

What is a library catalog and what does it contain?

"A library catalog is a register of all bibliographic items found in a library or group of libraries, such as a network of libraries at several locations."

What is another name for a catalog that includes multiple libraries?

"A catalog for a group of libraries is also called a union catalog."

What are some examples of the types of materials that can be considered bibliographic items?

"A bibliographic item can be any information entity (e.g., books, computer files, graphics, realia, cartographic materials, etc.) that is considered library material."

How has the traditional card catalog been replaced?

"The card catalog was a familiar sight to library users for generations, but it has been effectively replaced by the online public access catalog (OPAC)."

How do some people still refer to the online catalog?

"Some still refer to the online catalog as a 'card catalog'."

Why do some libraries still have physical card catalogs on site?

"Some libraries with OPAC access still have card catalogs on-site, but these are now strictly a secondary resource and are seldom updated."

What is a reason for libraries eliminating their card catalogs?

"Some libraries have eliminated their card catalog in favor of the OPAC for the purpose of saving space for other use, such as additional shelving."

Which organization manages the largest international library catalog in the world?

"The largest international library catalog in the world is the WorldCat union catalog managed by the non-profit library cooperative OCLC."

How many catalog records did WorldCat have as of January 2021?

"In January 2021, WorldCat had over half a billion catalog records."

How many library holdings does WorldCat have as of January 2021?

"In January 2021, WorldCat had three billion library holdings."

What is the purpose of a library catalog?

"It is relevant to the catalog and to the users (patrons) of the library."

What is the purpose of a sign found in libraries with physical card catalogs?

"Many libraries that retain their physical card catalog will post a sign advising the last year that the card catalog was updated."

What is the function of the online public access catalog (OPAC)?

"The online public access catalog (OPAC) effectively replaced the traditional card catalog."

How are physical card catalogs now considered in relation to the OPAC?

"These are now strictly a secondary resource."

What type of items are included in the WorldCat catalog?

"The WorldCat union catalog includes bibliographic items found in libraries."

Who manages the WorldCat union catalog?

"The WorldCat union catalog is managed by the non-profit library cooperative OCLC."

How many catalog records does the WorldCat union catalog have?

"WorldCat had over half a billion catalog records."

How can users access the WorldCat union catalog?

"Library users can access the WorldCat union catalog online."

What is the purpose of the card catalog in libraries that still have them?

"The card catalog in libraries that still have them serves as a secondary resource."

What is the role of the WorldCat union catalog?

"The role of the WorldCat union catalog is to provide access to a wide range of bibliographic items across libraries."