A Survey of Batch Cataloging Practices and Problems

Abstract

Abstract.Groups of bibliographic records are added to library catalogs with increasing frequency. Batch cataloging requires knowledge of bulk record transfer as well as current cataloging standards. While more efficient than cataloging items individually, batch cataloging requires different skills and creates new challenges. Responses to a wide-ranging online survey document the workload, tools, practices, and problems of batch cataloging. The unique characteristics of electronic resources affect many aspects of batch cataloging. Survey respondents lack consensus on how to share improved batch records, and recent trends in the bibliographic environment seem to make a networked solution less likely.

Positioning Libraries for a New Bibliographic Universe

“…Young performed a survey of batchloading practices that included a wider range of respondents from three different email discussion lists, and found similar frustrations with the batchload process. 122 Both surveys indicate that respondents believe that batchloading will increase in the future. Mugridge and Edmunds' article notes two areas for further research that may affect the future amount of batchloading: how discovery systems will impact the need to batchload records, and identifying the kinds of assessment necessary to ensure that batchloading has improved the discovery of library materials.…”