Introduction to the Library Catalog: New course from LiFT
Introduction to the Library Catalog, the newest course in the LiFT (Library Foundational Training) program, kicks off the four-course Library Catalog Series coming in the next few months. This course walks the learner through what a library catalog is, its purpose, and how it is essential to providing core library services, such as reliable access to collections.
The learner becomes familiar with basic cataloging terminology, including controlled vocabulary, bibliographic/bib records, MARC format, call numbers, and access points. Learners explore their library’s catalog, ILS, and practice some basic searches in those systems in the introductory course.
Why cataloging matters to library staff
When we first set out to update foundational course offerings in the WebJunction catalog, we collected survey data from library staff and state library continuing education coordinators. We found that Cataloging was #9 in the top 10 areas identified by library staff survey respondents as core to their work. The real standout finding, however, was that Cataloging was far and above the #1 area that library staff identified as the skill they wanted to increase their confidence in.
Nearly twice as many respondents selected Cataloging as an area of work to increase their confidence as Community engagement, the second most popular response. Introduction to the Library Catalog provides the foundation needed to help boost staff confidence in their knowledge about library catalogs.
How catalog knowledge can improve customer service interactions
Another core skills training need that consistently rose to the top was “customer service.” This LiFT course not only introduces learners to the library catalog but also connects this knowledge to its application in providing excellent customer service.
Several early testers, especially, appreciated the video showing how a staff member used the catalog to help a patron search for the DVD version of the 1933 movie King Kong. This search demonstrates several facets of the catalog needed to answer the patron’s query accurately. Learners leave with an understanding of why libraries catalog their collections and how using the catalog can provide excellent customer service.
More Library Catalog Series courses coming soon
This introductory course is just the beginning, and it provides important foundational knowledge about cataloging and sets learners up for the next three courses in the series:
- Subject Headings
- Classification and Call Numbers
- Copy Cataloging
This course is part of the LiFT—Library Foundational Training collection of on-demand learning content. OCLC’s WebJunction, in collaboration with the Idaho Commission for Libraries, designed LiFT courses to give library staff and volunteers practical, foundational knowledge to grow in their roles, expand their confidence, and strengthen public library practice from the ground up.
This project was made possible in part by a grant from the
Institute of Museum and Library Services (RE-256627-OLS-24) and support from OCLC.