Prince Sultan University PSU
Policy Management System
Cataloguing & Classification Policy

Policy Code:
Policy Name: Cataloguing & Classification Policy
Handler: Central Library
Date Created: 15 August 2020
Date of Current Review: 15 August 2020
Approved by:
Date of Approval:

Purpose

Standardized cataloguing and classification activities at Central Library provide a foundation to easy access and retrieval of library holdings. The purpose of this policy is to provide a framework to maintain a uniform standard of cataloging and classification at Central Library.

Policy

Definitions

Cataloging: In the libraries, cataloging is patron to enter the data correctly for easy and quick retrieval of the required material.

Original Cataloging: Original cataloging represents the preparation of bibliographic records from the scratch, without aid, help or pre-existing catalog record from OCLC. It is somewhat time overwhelming and requires working knowledge of library standards and tools like AACR 2nd rev. ed., MARC, RDA, DDC and LCSH.

Copy Cataloging: Adaptation of per-existing bibliographic record with modification or correction according to the requirements of the libraries. Copy cataloging is in practice at Central Library. Libraries are subscribing to OCLC in this regard.

Classification: In libraries, classification is a system of coding and to organize the library materials according to their class, subjects, topics and allocating a unique call number for the easy and quick access.

Policy Statement

The PSU Central Library’s Cataloging Unit is responsible for creating and maintaining accurate online descriptions and access points for library materials of all formats. The Cataloging unit strives to keep current with international cataloging standards, including emerging standards and process for bibliographic and authority records: AACR2, RDA, LC, MARC and OCLC’s formats and rules.

Moreover, the cataloging staff at PSU Central Library review cataloging policies and procedures on a regular basis; catalog library materials quickly and accurately; The cataloging staff perform original and copy cataloging of library items in all formats and maintain quality control of records (bibliographic and authority work) in the database for users to access and use library materials.

Procedure

  • Search first the PSU Library ILS, Symphony (via the Cataloging module). Is this item a duplicate? If yes, keep a note and set it aside for item maintenance (Add Item).
  • If no, search OCLC or LC for the record that matches the item at hand. Check the author, title and physical description (300 fields for print or online edition). The most complete record is preferred and imported into the database.
  • Check 020 (ISBN) for print or online edition of the item at hand before downloading the record.
  • Check Ctry (country code) and Lang (language code) in the fixed fields. Make corrections if needed.
  • Use the DDC system and OCLC cutter program for call numbers.
  • Activation of RFID and attaching barcode to the item
  • Perform the database maintenance for accurate bibliographic and authority records based on the current cataloging standards and procedures
  • Shelve and sort books on stacks according to the DDC scheme,
    Summaries
    First Summary
    The Ten Main Classes
    • 000 Computer science, information & general works
    • 100 Philosophy & psychology
    • 200 Religion
    • 300 Social sciences 400 Language
    • 500 Science
    • 600 Technology
    • 700 Arts & recreation
    • 800 Literature
    • 900 History & geography

Applicability

This Policy is applicable to Central Library catalogers.

Sanctions

Cataloging and classification is considered very important task at libraries. It requires consistent adherence to cataloging rules. In case of violation of rules and policy, data should be correct as soon as indicated with the consent of Library directors.

Abbreviations

  • AACR2: Anglo American cataloging rules revised 2nd edition.
  • DDC: Dewey decimal classification.
  • ER: Electronic resource.
  • ID: Identification.
  • ISBN: International Standard Book Number.
  • ISSN: International Standard Serial Number.
  • LCSHL: Library of congress subject headings list.
  • LOC: Library of Congress.
  • MARC: Machine-Readable Cataloging.
  • OCLC: Online Computer Library Center.
  • OPAC: Online Public Access Catalog.
  • RFID: Radio Frequency Identification.