Small Library Cataloging [Hardcover]

Herbert Hoffman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 2002

Completely updated, with a new section on using the computer in the cataloging function, this new edition of a classic will be a welcome tool for the volunteer or paraprofessional in a small library. Covering the essentials in clear nontechnical language, Hoffman explains the how and why of arranging publications, the principles of cataloging (including description, main and added entries, analytics, the shelf list, cross references, and filing), and online records. Nearly 100 examples illustrate the cataloging practice. Why do you need a shelf list? What is an authority file? Easy to understand and practical, this gem illuminates the world of monographs, series, irregular serials, uniform titles, simple and complex subject headings, tracings, and location codes. Even the world of the small library is startlingly complex--Hoffman's guide will simplify it.

Reviews of previous editions:

"Hoffman's guide to simplified cataloging practice will be a great help…this handbook lays out the options of collection organization clearly and in everyday language." -Booklist

"Because of its emphasis on fundamentals, rigorous reasoning, and its readable style, the book is also helpful for library school students as well as for practicing librarians." -Reference & Research Book News

"…will provide its intended reader, the nonprofessional or volunteer in charge of a small library, with solid, well-organized information necessary to catalog a collection systematically." LRTS

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Using nearly 100 examples, Hoffman explains the basic principles of shelf arrangement and cataloging. This new edition is disappointing. In 2002, it's past time, even for the smallest libraries (perhaps especially for them), for discussion of nineteenth-century card-based catalogs to move to an appendix and current well-established technologies to move to the fore. Hoffman devotes most of his text to the creation of catalog cards, and he still treats OPACs as an afterthought in a brief section at the end of the volume. To simplify cataloging operations, Hoffman recommends that "all main entries be constructed as title main entries." But small libraries often become bigger, and often they will want to take advantage of the well-established cataloging infrastructure, so it's a mistake to suggest that they not follow international standards, such as main entry headings under authors. The lack of an index detracts further from the utility of this guide. James D. Anderson
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review

The study of this book will probably simplify the reader's life in the library...Recommended for special libraries. (Catholic Library World )

Might be used to good effect by very small, general, stand alone libraries that do not have opportunities to join with other libraries in cooperative ventures. (Technicalities )

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 240 pages
• Publisher: Scarecrow Press; 3rd edition (February 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0810837307
• ISBN-13: 978-0810837300
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,524,529 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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