Discusses the reasons and methods for retrospective conversion of library catalog data into machine-readable form. The need for standards is emphasized and suggestions are given for documenting local standards. Ideas are included for completing the conversion of a project done by a vendor, where some parts may have been overlooked. (Author/EM)

Expresses concern about the future of cataloging and its overall quality, noting problems in applying the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR2), complications caused by computer applications, the deterioration of quality control in subject heading authorities, cost considerations, and the loss of quality control in general. Four references are…

Discusses need for retrospective conversion of library catalogs in terms of user-problems related to split catalogs in various formats. Difficulties to be overcome in retrospective conversion projects (ownership of records, costs, non-Roman script languages, standards and inhospitability of MARC for variety of manuscript and pictorial material)…

Describes the development of CONSER, a cooperative effort by libraries to create, maintain, and distribute quality bibliographic and cataloging information that conforms to national standards for serial cataloging. Issues involved in each phase of the project are discussed. (16 references) (CLB)

Relates the Seminole Community College (Florida) library's experience barcoding a collection of materials and provides practical suggestions on how to implement barcoding in other libraries. Highlights include a barcode plan (smart barcodes and dumb barcodes), worker guidelines, problems encountered, and costs. An annotated bibliography and seven…

Describes features of the Western Library Network's database, including the database structure, authority control, contents, quality control, and distribution methods. The discussion covers changes in distribution necessitated by increasing telecommunications costs and the development of optical data disk products. (CLB)

Quality in library technical services is explored in light of changes produced by automation. Highlights include a definition of quality; new opportunities and shifting priorities; cataloging (fullness of records, heading consistency, accountability, local standards, automated checking); need for new skills (management, staff); and boons of…

Briefly describes the automated system as it relates to cataloging processes at each of six university libraries. Areas that have been most affected are noted--authority control, catalog maintenance, decentralization of original cataloging and other technical services functions, enhanced public access to materials, and quality control. (25…

The new manager of the Saint Louis Public Library's cataloging department describes how she dealt with three computer systems, planning for unexpected downtime, juggling staff, balancing different levels of expertise, and upgrading staff technical skills. The development of a cataloging procedures manual is also described. (KRN)

Purpose: This paper aims to use two case studies of digital archives designed by library and information professionals and historians to highlight the twin issues of academic authenticity and accuracy of digital representations. Design/methodology/approach: Using secondary literature, the author established a hypothesis about the way in which…

Describes the activities of the Health Sciences OCLC User Group, which was organized to establish a forum for communication; provide information about National Library of Medicine cataloging rules in OCLC; maintain close relations with the National Library of Medicine and the Medical Libraries Association; and represent its constituency to OCLC.…

This paper discusses problems and opportunities, presented by the information explosion and the growth of the Internet, for libraries to apply and augment traditional methods of cataloging. The first section provides an overview of how the process of cataloging evolved, including the development of the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR),…

A series of articles examines the possible role of standards in measuring the performance of automated library systems and in planning the needed capacity of a system. Topics discussed include capacity modeling; response time measurement; system performance from the library, vendor, and consultant perspectives; and development of performance…

The periodic review and development of public library standards are undertaken by the Kansas State Library to best serve the public interest by insuring the quality of the state's public libraries. Standards are defined for the structure and governance of libraries. Service objectives and standards for automation and technology are defined.…