In-Depth Guide: Public Libraries

​Public libraries serve a broad and diverse community, which influences their approach to cataloging and classification. This guide delves deeper into how public libraries can optimize their cataloging and classification processes to meet the needs of their community effectively.

​Understanding Your Audience

  • Community Demographics: Tailor the catalog to reflect the interests and needs of the community, such as local history or cultural interests.
  • Reading Levels: Include reading levels in records to assist patrons in finding age-appropriate materials.

​Cataloging Standards

  • RDA Adoption: Ensure compliance with RDA to future-proof records, as it is the prevailing standard in public libraries.
  • Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC): Preferred for its user-friendly structure; maintain consistency in assigning Dewey numbers to facilitate patron browsing.

​Special Cataloging Considerations

  • Multilingual Materials: Provide catalog entries in multiple languages where necessary to serve non-English speaking patrons.
  • Media and Formats: Catalog various formats like audiobooks, DVDs, and digital resources with distinct icons or indicators.

​Cataloging Local History and Archives

  • Community Contributions: Develop local history collections and include catalog records for community-contributed materials.
  • Local Authors: Highlight local authors and create dedicated sections or searchable notes in catalog records.

​Children’s and Young Adult Collections

  • Age and Interest Categories: Use clear labels for age ranges and interests (e.g. "Tween", "Young Adult").
  • Series and Characters: Ensure series and popular characters are easily searchable with cross-references.

​Cataloging for Accessibility

  • Accessibility Resources: Clearly indicate materials suited for patrons with disabilities, like large print books or audiobooks.
  • Tags and Symbols: Use universally recognized symbols for different accessibility formats.

​Enhanced Catalog Records

  • Visual Elements: Include cover images, author pictures, and other visual elements in records to enhance appeal and recognition.
  • Community Reviews: Allow patrons to add reviews and ratings, which can be moderated by library staff.

​Technology and Online Catalogs

  • Mobile-Friendly Catalogs: Ensure the online public access catalog (OPAC) is responsive and mobile-friendly.
  • Integration with E-resources: Seamlessly integrate electronic resources and databases with the catalog.

​User-Friendly Catalog Interfaces

  • Simple Search Options: Provide an intuitive search interface with auto-complete and "Did you mean?" suggestions.
  • Browsing Features: Offer virtual "shelf browsing" to mimic the in-person experience.

​Staff Training and Development

  • Continuous Training: Offer regular training on the latest cataloging standards and local policies.
  • Cross-Training: Encourage staff to understand both cataloging and reference to better serve patrons’ inquiries.

​Community Engagement and Feedback

  • Patron Input: Encourage feedback on cataloging and classification to understand usability and satisfaction.
  • Usability Testing: Regularly test catalog navigation and search functionality with real users.

​Policy and Procedure Documentation

  • Clear Guidelines: Maintain up-to-date cataloging and classification manuals for staff reference.
  • Regular Reviews: Schedule periodic reviews of cataloging policies to align with evolving community needs.
​Remember, the goal of cataloging and classification in a public library is not only to organize information but to do so in a way that is most accessible and meaningful to the community it serves. The catalog should be a living resource, adaptable, and responsive to public needs and feedback.