Controlled vocabulary and consistency

Now in the days of Google and Amazon do we cataloguers still need a controlled vocabulary?

In my opinion the answer is a resounding YES!  Computers and library database software are so particular that even a misplaced comma or period can create a new authority.  One of my pet peeves is the careless use of genres.  For instance I have downloaded many records that use the genre heading “Romantic suspense novels”.  There is no such heading in LCSH and the correct term in GSAFD is “Romantic suspense fiction“.  We do our patrons a disservice if we have both of these heading in our database.  The same goes for “Detective and mystery stories” (an LCSH heading) and “Mystery fiction” (a GSAFD heading).  Each library should pick which heading they intend to use and stick to these.

Dewey Blog

Are you one of those people who doesn’t completely understand Dewey?  Is there anyone who does?

For explanation and discussion on all matters Dewey visit http://ddc.typepad.com/

Includes tips for using WebDewey, when and how many zeros to add when building numbers and much, much more!

If you have access to WebDewey and want a quick tutorial, OCLC provides a Power Point presentation.

New and changed subject headings

Thriftiness sh2008005647 An excellent topic for these difficult economic times

Library cats sh200900202 Does Dewey the cat spring to mind?

Bridges have changed to direct order

For instance if the old heading was Bridges, Concrete the SH is now Concrete bridges

If the heading was Bridges, Cantilever the SH is now Cantilever bridges

For a complete list of recent changes refer to the latest CSB which is available in .pdf format

Welcome cataloguers!

My co-workers will say that I am obsessed with cataloguing.   They are right!

This blog has been created to guide catalogers to the information they need, when they need it.  To keep them apprised of changes in the field, to keep them in touch with other cataloguers, and to celebrate their AR tendencies!