Resource Description and Access (RDA) is “a package of data elements, guidelines, and instructions for creating library and cultural heritage resource metadata that are well-formed according to international models for user-focused linked data applications” (RDA Steering Committee, 2022). RDA provides an inclusive content standard for describing resources in a wide variety of formats, for many data environments including bibliographic/authority data, relational databases, and linked open data. The original version of RDA replaced AACR2 in 2010, and has been implemented widely since 2013. In recent years, it underwent a major revision (the “3R Project”) to update the underlying technology for maintaining the standard, ensure compliance with IFLA Library Reference Model (LRM), internationalize the standard, and accommodate linked data technologies. This revision resulted in the Official RDA Toolkit.

Since the launch of the Official RDA Toolkit in December 2020, cataloguers across Canada have expressed a need for practical training. While local pockets of training have occurred, such as pre-conference RDA workshops at the annual OLA Super Conferences (2023 and 2024), those efforts have been grassroots driven, with participation limited by geography as well as resources of individual libraries. Based on teaching experience, post-workshop survey results, and personal interactions within peer networks, the RDA Training in Canada Working Group (consisting of cataloguing librarians, managers, and instructors across Canada) recognizes a strong need for an official coordinated national effort to organize and deliver a practical, hands-on RDA training program that can be replicated across multiple communities in Canada.

RDA has been evolving to meet a variety of current and future needs, and bibliographic data in libraries may be at different stages of implementation. As more libraries begin implementing the official RDA Toolkit, bibliographic data sourced from other libraries will increasingly reflect practices and standards associated with RDA, impacting not only libraries that perform original cataloguing, but also libraries that copy catalogue or that obtain catalogue data primarily from vendors and consortia.

We envision the following benefits to establishing a national RDA training program in Canada:

• Canadian libraries, regardless of their geographic location or affiliation with existing consortia, have a chance to practice applying RDA in an online classroom led by knowledgeable RDA experts who are familiar with the Canadian context and can speak authoritatively to Canadian practices.

• Participation in the training program would not presume prior knowledge or familiarity with LC-PCC practices.

• Cataloguers with minimal-to-no professional development funding through their employment have a chance to learn and apply RDA from a reliable and accessible source.

• The program would create more equitable access to RDA training, especially for rural library systems and libraries in remote or northern communities.

• Expanding the number of RDA experts across Canada would increase opportunities for information sharing across provinces and territories.

• The program could empower more Canadian cataloguers to participate in international metadata initiatives, including representation of Canadian perspectives on the international stage.