PITFALLS AND THE PENDULUM: RECONSIDERING EDUCATION FOR CATALOGING AND THE ORGANIZATION OF INFORMATION

Janet Swan Hill

special theme issue guest editor

Preface by Janet Swan Hill

Part I. A Matter of Opinion

Why Teach Cataloguing and Classification?

by Michael Gorman

Abstract: Enemies of cataloging today include ill-informed administrators, information scientists in library schools, and those who think that alternatives to vocabulary control and bibliographic architecture - such as Google - are better and cheaper than cataloging. Bibliographic control and cataloging should be at the heart of library education. An ideal library school is described.
Keywords: Cataloging education, library education, library school curricula

Persistent Issues in Cataloging Education: Considering the Past and Looking Toward the Future

by Sheila S. Intner

Abstract: Describes and analyzes the following three issues which elicit strong but divergent, views among cataloging faculty, students, and practitioners, and seem to have done so for as long as people have been writing about cataloging education: (1) practice versus theory in cataloging education; (2) dividing book and nonbook cataloging into separate classes versus teaching the cataloging of all materials in a single class; and, (3) what setting is best for teaching cataloging-formal graduate school courses, on the job training, or continuing education offerings. Speculates on how these issues may play out in the future as cataloging education continues to evolve in the 21st century.
Keywords: Cataloging education, continuing education, theory vs. practice

Why Does Everybody Hate Cataloging?

by Heidi Lee Heorman

Abstract: An opinionated and very informal exploration of the reasons that cataloging is often disparaged or undervalued, with suggestions for initiatives that might improve perceptions and enable advancement of cataloging agenda.
Keywords: Cataloging education, cataloging

Cataloging: An Exciting Subject for Exciting Times

by Robert P. Holley

Abstract: Cataloging remains a fundamental component of library and information science and has many lessons to teach the architects of the Internet age. All students can benefit from taking a cataloging course, especially if it stresses cataloging as one specific answer to the problems of managing information and places cataloging within a larger context that also includes indexing and Internet search engines. Students deserve cataloging courses that combine theory and practice, avoid memorization, and require them to show a mastery of core principles rather than picky details. This paper includes specific suggestions on how to make cataloging exciting.
Keywords: Cataloging education, cataloging curriculum

Part II. The Context

Demographic Trends Affecting Professional Technical Services Staffing in ARL Libraries

by Stanley J. Wilder

Abstract: This paper presents demographic data from the Association of Research Libraries to argue that professional staffing in technical services/cataloging positions is declining. Two factors are identified as possible causes: first, a consistent and long-term drop-off in hiring, and second, unusually high retirement rates resulting from the advanced age of these staff. 
Keywords: Demographics, aging, librarianship, cataloging, retirements, hiring, library staffing

A New Look at US Graduate Courses in Bibliographic Control

by Daniel N. Joudrey

Abstract: The current state of graduate bibliographic control education in the United States is examined through reviewing the literature, analyzing Web sites for 48 LIS programs, and corresponding with and interviewing bibliographic control educators. In reviewing the recent bibliographic control education literature, six primary themes were identified: background/contextual information, theory versus practice, responsibilities and skills needed by catalogers, relations between educators and practitioners, the universality of cataloging, and curricular issues. Each of these areas is examined in depth. The study conducted examined the number and types of bibliographic control education available in LIS programs in the US. It also collected information on which textbooks were being used in each course. It appears from the study that some courses are increasing in number. The primary areas of bibliographic control education examined include organizing information, technical services, classification theory, indexing, thesaurus construction, cataloging technology, and basic, advanced, descriptive, subject, non-book, Internet resources, and music cataloging courses.
Keywords: Cataloging education, classification education, library education, library schools, bibliographic control courses

Textbooks Used in Bibliographic Control Education Courses

by Daniel N. Joudrey

Abstract: As part of the study reported in this paper, the usage of textbooks in bibliographic control education was also examined. This information, which is presented in the following sixteen tables, was obtained by analyzing the Web sites of the 48 ALA-accredited LIS schools in the United States, excluding only the program at the University of Puerto Rico. The course description and the syllabus for each course were examined to determine the textbooks used. If a current syllabus was not available on the Web, the school's cataloging faculty was contacted by e-mail. In a few cases, telephone interviews were conducted to obtain the needed information. Data collection occurred between September 14, 2000 and February 12, 2001. 
Keywords: Textbooks, cataloging education, classification, library education, bibliographic control courses

Where Are We and How Did We Get Here? Or, The Changing Place of Cataloging in the Library and Information Science Curriculum: Causes and Consequences

by Jerry D. Saye

Abstract: Explores factors that have influenced library and information science education over the past two decades. Emphasis is placed on cataloging instruction and particularly cataloging as a required course. Identifies the introduction of new areas of study, corresponding curricular changes, the nature of LIS faculty as influencing the role of cataloging in the professional education of librarians. An analysis is provided of the changing perception of the importance of cataloging in professional library education programs.
Keywords: Cataloging education, library schools, library school faculty, library school curricula

"If I Knew Then What I Know Now": UNCG LIS Graduates' Perspectives on Cataloging Education

by Beatrice Kovacs and Nancy Dayton

Abstract: The debate over whether cataloging courses should be required has continued for many years between faculties in various 'library' schools. To gauge the value of the required UNCG cataloging course and its impact on their professional duties, graduates of the UNCG MLIS program were surveyed during the last quarter of 2001. Of the 191 respondents, whether they had positions as catalogers or not, the overwhelming majority (89%) felt that such a course is essential and should be required.
Keywords: Cataloging, core competencies, cataloging curriculum, education, librarianship, research

Cataloging or Knowledge Management: Perspectives of Library Educators on Cataloging Education for Entry-Level Academic Librarians

by Michelle R. Turvey and Karen M. Letarte)

Abstract: The topic of cataloging education for catalogers and non-catalogers alike has been a perennial topic for practitioners. This follow-up study explores the views of library educators with regard to cataloging education. Twenty-three educators with primary teaching duties in reference, twenty-nine educators with primary teaching duties in cataloging and seventy educators whose primary teaching duties were in neither reference nor cataloging in ALA-accredited master's degree programs responded to a survey based on the ALCTS Educational Policy Statement, Appendix: Knowledge and Skills, Intellectual Access and Information Organization concerning the importance of cataloging competencies for all entry-level academic librarians. The survey found library educators, in general, agreed with practitioners on the listed cataloging competencies for all entry-level academic librarians.
Keywords: Cataloging education, competencies, academic librarians

Part III. Education for Specific Purposes

Format Integration and the Design of Cataloging and Classification Curricula

by Clement Arsenault and John E. Leide

Abstract: Cataloging is a dynamic and ever changing activity. Developments in codes and standards create a need for continuing reconsideration of the design of our curricula. Format integration, in particular, raises questions about the structure of curricula for cataloging and classification. The issues relating to differing formats of materials are not new, but the process of standardization of treatment, which was begun quite tentatively in the development of the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR) has blossomed to the fore in the ensuing years. This paper examines the historical context of the integration of formats before addressing the continuing arguments that maintain that all types of materials should be treated in an introductory course as opposed to those that assert that format issues should not be covered in any depth in an introductory course. A design for an integrated but not exhaustive treatment of formats in an introductory course with more detailed coverage included in advanced courses is proposed.
Keywords: Format integration, nonbook cataloging, cataloging education, cataloging curriculum


Cataloging and Metadata Education: Asserting a Central Role in Information Organization

by Ingrid Hsieh-Yee

Abstract: This paper describes challenges in organizing digital resources, the role of cataloging in such effort, forces that threaten the future of cataloging, and responses from the field. It identifies ten issues for consideration when one designs a future cataloging education program. A model program providing four levels of expertise is presented to illustrate that future cataloging education will have a broader scope, incorporating metadata and various aspects of information organization. The program shows that LIS programs can meet different market demands to cover cataloging and metadata topics adequately to help students and ensure the centrality role of the profession in future information organization.
Keywords: cataloging, metadata, cataloging education, metadata education, digital resources, information organization 

On Teaching Subject Cataloging

by Arlene G. Taylor and Daniel N. Joudrey

Abstract: The authors, Professor Arlene G. Taylor and her doctoral student, Daniel N. Joudrey, discuss their approach to teaching subject cataloging in the graduate library and information sciences (LIS) program at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Information Sciences. This essay discusses the authors' thoughts on the importance of subject cataloging in graduate LIS education, the theory versus practice debate, goals, class work, grading, making it concrete to the students, ordering topics in the courses, separating subject analysis from descriptive cataloging, and concerns for the future. 
Keywords: Subject cataloging education, cataloging education, subject analysis

Education for Authority Control: Whose Responsibility Is It?

by Rebecca L. Mugridge and Kevin A. Furniss

Abstract: Educating librarians to perform authority work and catalog maintenance involves formal education in library school and both on-the-job and in-service training. However, the path from library school graduate to authority control librarian is neither direct nor self-evident. The authors surveyed the membership of the AUTOCAT electronic discussion group to determine how librarians learn the theory and practice of authority control and catalog maintenance; strategies that would make authority control easier to learn; levels of educational responsibility involved for the library schools, individual librarians and their employers; and how librarians value authority control. The survey results show that an ongoing collaboration among librarians, employers and educators is needed to refine and simplify the process of authority control education. 
Keywords: Cataloger education, authority control, catalog management, library school courses

What Else Do You Need To Know? Practical Skills for Catalogers and Managers

by Janet Swan Hill

Abstract: Catalogers and those who manage cataloging operations need a broader practical knowledge base than can be reasonably acquired in library schools, especially since the availability of cataloging coursework in library schools has decreased over time. This paper is written from the perspective of a manager of cataloging operations, and considers the kinds of skills, education and training needed for both catalogers and managers. It concentrates primarily on library specific education, computer, and communication skills, and suggests how such skills can be acquired and maintained. 
Keywords: Cataloging education, technical services education, continuing education, competencies

Part IV. Alternatives for Instructional Delivery

Innovations in standard classroom instruction

by Gertrude S. Koh

Abstract: Describes the characteristics of contemporary students in library schools, their experiences and expectations, and how they shape the goal of cataloging courses. Reviews historical innovations in cataloging instruction. Defines the nature of "cataloging" courses in the curriculum. Presents samples of innovations used in standard classrooms for teaching and learning a core-course and one of the elective "cataloging" courses. Focuses on how and why online mentor catalogers are incorporated in the teaching and learning of one particular course (Metadata for Internet Resources, at Dominican University Graduate School of Library and Information Science). Discusses how and in what ways collaborative teaching with expert practitioners in cataloging online at remote sites contributes to the education of future librarians.
Keywords: Innovations for cataloging education; Online mentor catalogers; Distance education; Collaboration with practitioners; Teaching cataloging ; Educating catalogers

Online Mentoring: A Student Experience at Dominican University

by Judith L. Aulik, Holly Ann Burt, Michael Geeraedts, Elizabeth Gruby, Bongjoo Moon Lee, Anita Morgan, and Corey O'Halloran

Abstract: This paper explores the online learning experience of seven students in the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at Dominican University. In a class entitled Metadata for Internet Resources, the students developed a distance learning relationship with professional catalogers. Student assignments included posting bibliographic records on the WebBoardTM for mentor input. In an online exchange, the mentors responded by posting their suggestions for improving student records. The interaction between students and mentors is discussed, as is the educational value of distance learning.
Keywords: Mentoring, distance education, cataloging education, internet resource cataloging 

Online Distance Learing with Cataloging Mentors: The Mentor's Viewpoint

by Kate Harcourt and Susan M. Neumeister 

Abstract: Cataloging experts from across the United States were asked to critique assignments from students enrolled in Professor Gertrude Koh's classes at the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois through the use of an Internet bulletin board (WebBoardTM, O'Reilly & Associates, Inc.). This paper examines the mentors' perspective on teaching cataloging and their experience in teaching future colleagues via the WebBoard.
Keywords: Mentoring, distance education, cataloging education, Internet resource cataloging

When Donkeys Fly: Distance Education for Cataloging

by Elaine Yontz

Abstract: Distance education - a mode of course delivery in which the teacher is geographically separated from the students and in which that separation is mediated by technology - is increasingly used in LIS programs. This paper covers advantages and drawbacks of distance education for cataloging, argues that the possibilities outweigh the disadvantages, summarizes current educational research on distance education, and offers a list of elements that may help educators and students to take full advantage of the possibilities.
Keywords: Distance education, cataloging education 

An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of OCLC Online Computer Library Center's Web-Based Module on Cataloging Internet Resources Using the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules and MARC21

by Robert Ellett

Abstract: In January 2001, the OCLC Institute released its first online learning course, Cataloging Internet Resources Using MARC21 and AACR2. This research investigated whether participants using this Web-based tool would gain experience equivalent to that of librarians who are already proficient in the skill of cataloging Internet resources. A pre-course/post-course comparison of test results of librarians not experienced with cataloging Internet resources indicated an increase of 35 percent (from 51 to 86 percent) of the correct answers after taking the Web-based course. The group experienced with cataloging Internet resources answered an average of 71 percent of the questions correctly.
Keywords: Web-based training, cataloging Internet resources, OCLC Institute, distance education

Cataloging Internet Resources Using MAC21 and AACR2: Online Training for Working Catalogers

by Anna M. Ferris

Abstract: This article endorses the use of web-based instruction for cataloging education as represented by OCLC's online course, Cataloging Internet Resources using MARC 21 and AACR2. This type of instruction is particularly useful to working catalogers (professional and paraprofessional alike) who cannot spare the time or the expense to attend workshops and seminars in order to receive training in the latest developments in the field. The OCLC course also paves the way for a new standardized program of online cataloging education that will be tailored for working catalogers at all levels of expertise and that will offer specialized, yet convenient, training in a wide variety of formats. 
Keywords: Web-based training, cataloging internet resources, OCLC Institute, distance education

The Program for Cooperative Cataloging and Training for Catalogers

by Carol G. Hixson and William A. Garrison

Abstract: This paper examines the training programs developed by the Program for Cooperative Cataloging (PCC) and gives an historical overview. Future training activities and needs are also discussed
Keywords: Cataloging, training, continuing education, authority work, cooperative cataloging

Catalog Training for People Who Are Not Catalogers: The Colorado Digitization Project Experience

by Sue Kriegsman

Abstract: The Colorado Digitization Project is a cooperative endeavor designed to enable creation of a virtual library of unique resources and historical collections in Colorado through assisting all types of Cultural Heritage Institutions in the State to scan and make available on the Internet images of materials and artifacts within their collections. An important component of the project is educational, and includes teaching staff in all types of institutions about access, cataloging and metadata. 
Keywords: Metadata training, continuing education, cataloging training, Colorado Digitization Project

The Community of Catalogers: Its Role in the Education of Catalogers

by Judith Hopkins

Abstract: The community of catalogers (defined as "those who work with you") plays a relatively small role in the formal education process. It plays a greater role in training as new hires talk to their new colleagues, subscribe to electronic discussion lists (especially focused lists such as the Passport for Windows list, LCWeb, Autocat, etc.) and become involved in professional associations, cooperative projects, etc. Its greatest role, however, is in the area of informal continuing education. That is especially true for electronic discussion lists such as AUTOCAT. Such lists fill a gap in the education / training continuum: how to find quick, specific answers to questions when your library lacks either the personnel or print or electronic resources to provide them. They extend the community of catalogers from those who work with you to the entire world.
Keywords: Cataloging education, continuing education, colleagues, electronic discussion lists.

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