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.