Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians

by Ruth Carter, Mary L Kao

Here is the first book on the subject written for library technicians. Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians describes all aspects of cataloging and classification of library materials (book and non-book), emphasizing copy cataloging but also discussing original cataloging. Most books are written for professional catalogers or MLS level students and contain more cataloging details than library technicians need while not supplying information on library technicians'roles in the modern information world. Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians contains the right amount of information presented in an easy-to-understand manner to help library technicians do their jobs effectively.Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians interprets and explains cataloging rules and how they should be applied. Kao describes library organization and personnel patterns to illustrate the relationship between library technicians and other library staff. She examines duties commonly performed by library technicians in chapters on:
library catalogs
tools used for cataloging library materials
descriptive cataloging
subject headings
classification systems
copy cataloging
the cataloging department
issues and trendsEach chapter contains definitions of relevant terminology and review questions to focus learning. A list of suggested readings is also included for individuals who want or need to know more about a particular aspect of cataloging or classification. The book is an ideal text to use in programs for library technical assistants and a handy reference for practicing library technicians.

Genres: Nonfiction

137 pages, Hardcover

First published July 24, 1995

Reviews

[Cherie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read Mary L. Kao's Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians to learn more about cataloging. Although a good basis for library terms, I found the writing to be dry, boring, and a tad overwritten and repetitive. The book has some history of cataloging and talks about the basics of what every book needs to be cataloged, but I wish it had more about MARC records and LCC numbers. Even though this book came out in 2001, I was surprised it didn't focus more on computer-based cataloging as opposed to card cataloging and the like. Cataloging and Classification for Library Technicians by Mary L. Kao is a good start for a librarian learning cataloging, but perhaps something more current would be more useful.

[Nicolas · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was helpful information sprinkled throughout, and it actually wasn't as dry as I was expecting. I think my main problem with this first edition was how quickly it went out of date. Throughout the book the author specifies which edition of several cataloging resources was the most recent. Since most of these supplemental titles are either yearly or every five years, this book was out of date months after it was published. A good editor should have caught that. Anyway, not a very comprehensive manual but enough relevant information to have its usefulness.

[Gena Lott · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read an older version as a brush-up for my job. Had read the book originally years ago when taking my first cataloging classes. About half of the book is obsolete now because of the automation in libraries. But the other half of the information is still pertinent and a great refresher.