Cataloging and Classification: An Introduction

The fifth edition of the classic Cataloging and Classification covers the analysis and representation of methods used in describing, organizing, and providing access to resources made available in or through libraries. Since the last edition, there have new developments in cataloging, with the introduction of the IFLA Library Reference Model (LRM) and the new, official RDA, following the 3R Project. This text presents the essence of library cataloging and classification in terms of four basic functions: descriptive cataloging, authority work, subject access, and classification. Within this framework, content has been re-organized, all chapters have been rewritten, and new chapters have been introduced to incorporate the changes that have occurred during the interval between the four and fifth editions. In each part, the historical development and underlying principles of the retrieval mechanism at issue are treated first, because these are considered essential to an understanding of cataloging and classification. Discussion and examples of provisions in the standards and tools are then presented to illustrate the operations covered in each chapter. Divided into six parts--a general overview; record production and structure, encoding formats, and metadata records; RDA; subject access and controlled vocabularies; the organization of library resources; and the broader context of cataloging and classification. The book includes lists of the standards and tools used in the preparation and processing of cataloging records covered, and suggested background readings. A companion website features interactive exercises, resources (links to projects, tools, etc.), and further readings.