LIS 5403 - Cataloging and Classification

This course aimed to help us gain a proficient understanding and comprehensive knowledge of cataloging, encompassing the rules and standards essential for ensuring the accurate representation of items. To demonstrate the fulfillment of these objectives, I selected an assignment that serves as evidence to our achievements of course objectives. Alongside three other partners, I created a cataloging guide tailored to the cataloging practices at Linscheid Library on East Central University Campus. Within this guide, we addressed various facets of cataloging, including the departmental policy, cataloged items, tools and processes utilized, and specific systems employed by the Technical Services Department at East Central University. We divided the assignment into different parts to alleviate its size. I focused on interviewing the Technical Services Librarian (OU SLO 3 - Professional and Scholarly Communication) at Linscheid Library to gain a comprehensive understanding of their department and then writing the library's cataloging procedures.

Analysis

As I was employed at the library where this cataloging guide was developed, my group ensured that the information presented not only reflected the practices of the Technical Services but also addressed the needs of the library's users. We achieved this by emphasizing the importance of aligning cataloging procedures with the information needs of users throughout the guide. Also, drawing from past experiences where group projects suffered from communication breakdowns, we implemented effective communication procedures (OU SLO 3 - Professional and Scholarly Communication). We created a meeting schedule and shared our work documents since each team member was assigned different sections of the guide. This communication approach resulted in a cohesive guide that seamlessly integrates contributions from all four members, giving the impression of a one-person creation rather than a four-person one. This project served as a continuation of the organizational knowledge acquired in the course Organization of Information. Leveraging this prior knowledge, I developed a deeper understanding of the concepts and theories underlying effective information organization (ALA Competency 3 - Organization of Recorded Knowledge and Information). The creation of this guide also provided me with insights into technology that is used in the cataloging process at East Central University and I was able to provide the librarian with newer technology/software I had learned about in class (Personal Goal 3.1). This in-depth understanding enabled me to contribute to the creation of a guide that not only benefits the library but also caters to the diverse needs of its users (OU SLO 6 - Diversity).

Reflection

Creating this guide provided a glimpse into my future as a librarian. At the time of its creation, I served as the Digital Services Librarian and had limited experience with cataloging. However, as I delved into the process, I discovered a deep affinity for it. Cataloging, to me, resembles solving a puzzle, where I must gather the pieces of information necessary to support the users of each item. A few months later, I was offered the position of Technical Services Librarian at Linscheid Library, which I eagerly accepted. In my current role, I frequently refer back to this guide when assisting my assistant with cataloging tasks. This experience emphasizes the immense value of my time in the OU SLIS program, as it has equipped me with practical skills that I can directly apply in professional settings.