Whether you're a practicing cataloger looking for a short text to update you on the application of RDA to cataloging records or a school librarian who needs a quick resource to answer cataloging questions, this guide is for you. Since the last edition of this invaluable text was published, the library world has experienced a revolution in descriptive cataloging the likes of which has not been seen since the early 1980s. This updated, third edition of an established and well-respected guide makes it easy for you to stay in step with those monumental changes. The book will help you understand the latest fundamentals of cataloging so you can get items on the library shelves quickly and efficiently. Every chapter has been revised. Changes in standards, including RDA and BISAC, that were alluded to in the second edition are discussed in depth and illustrated with explanations, and sample problem sets are included so you can put theory into practice. In addition, the book provides you with clear headings for easy scanning as well as cheat sheets and templates for creating records for book and non-book items. Previous editions of this text have been used by library practitioners and library and information science professors across the country because of its spot-on, easy-to-follow guidance on cataloging for school libraries. This new edition builds upon those strengths, adding everything you need to know about current, groundbreaking changes. Thoroughly updates a best-selling, essential guide to cataloging Addresses the new standards specifically as they apply to school libraries Helps school librarians understand and implement the new cataloging standards in their collections Distills the latest information and presents it in a format that is clear and accessible Fills the need for up-to-the-minute cataloging guidance for the busy librarian who wants information in a hurry

People who run small, rural libraries without formal education will use this book to help them make informed decisions about the organization of their library and the information it holds. This is one of the key tasks in any library. While many librarians may buy all of their items already cataloged, they may need to catalog an item, change a subject heading, or tape a classification number to a book. Reading this book, analyzing the examples, and working through problem sets provides an exciting introduction to organizing the library. It serves as an excellent tool for staff development of paraprofessionals. Non-catalogers can organize library collections when they use information available which has been created by professional catalogers. This books explains the tools of the trade, becoming familiar with all the parts of the record, how to adapt another's work cutting and pasting descriptions. The practice problems will be useful to workshop presenters who will use this book in teaching newly hired librarians who will be working, often unassisted, in small libraries.

Designed to help undergraduates, graduates and practicing professionals, this book will help you get your materials classified, cataloged and on the shelf in no time and with no headache!
-- Excellent as a training manual for library paraprofessionals and volunteers
-- Up-to-date, covering the fundamentals as well as the latest systems and formats