Examination of factors of library technical processing priority systems (i.e., processing on basis other than randomization) highlights internal factors (priority by chronological sequence, personal choice, format, influence of organizational structure, acquisition type, patron, librarians' judgement); external factors (shared cataloging, Library…

Discussion of rush library processing (rapid provision of books that are urgently needed) highlights speed versus cost, previous studies, and a study conducted at Clemson University Library to determine rush book turnaround time. Seven guidelines applicable primarily to academic libraries are suggested as aids to improve rush processing. (9…

Discusses why innovation is important for technical services and lists requirements: the ability to envision the future, the use of intuitive thinking and creativity, and well-managed implementation. Examines systems for verification and delivery of bibliographic records (OCLCs Passport for Windows and PromptCat), and outsourcing and…

Describes reorganization of monographic processing at Iowa State University Library Technical Services for effective use of online cataloging system (OCLC). Combination of pre-order bibliographic searching with later copy cataloging, post-receipt examination of materials, hit rates and type of records used, productivity and processing speed, and…

Suggesting that the library catalog of the future should be an analytic catalog, this article reports that sample of books in a community college library showed that approximately 20% were collections or anthologies containing an average of 30 works each. Advantages and costs of analytical catalogs are considered. (6 references) (EJS)