Section I, Chapter A
Cataloging and Metadata Services Section Overview
The Cataloging and Metadata Services Section provides and maintains bibliographic access to all Fondren Library materials in all formats and selected scholarly information through our online catalog and digital repository. We participate in development and creation of access mechanisms for electronic resources through University-wide and national projects.
Staff are involved in digital projects and continue to explore non-MARC metadata schemas, DSpace, and other bibliographic database management and information retrieval software products. We also create order records for materials in all formats selected for the Library.
In addition to cataloging and ordering, the Section manages our local authority database and provides maintenance for the bibliographic database, which contains over 2 million records. The Section also provides support for large-scale collection moves.
Our staff are skilled in a variety of languages and subject areas and are trained to catalog the different formats acquired by the Library. The Section enjoys the expertise of a diverse group of staff committed to processing materials efficiently while maintaining the highest possible standards of cataloging excellence.
We create and edit MARC records utilizing OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) bibliographic database and our local library system Sirsi. We build our catalog in accordance with national standards and local guidelines and policies to ensure the best possible access to the library collection for our users.
We strongly encourage and support staff development. The Section collaborates with our Information Technology Department to optimize the use of available technology in achievement of departmental goals.
We are committed to supporting the University’s mission of teaching, learning, and research and strive to provide the best possible quality, timely service to our users.
Prepared by: Jiun Kuo
Last updated: May 11, 2007
Index terms: department overview