Cataloging Correctly for Kids: An Introduction to the Tools (5th ed)

Citation

McCallon, M.L. (2013), "Cataloging Correctly for Kids: An Introduction to the Tools (5th ed)", Collection Building, Vol. 32 No. 1, pp. 49-49. https://doi.org/10.1108/cb.2013.32.1.49.4

In the 5th edition of this important educational endeavor, Intner and her co‐editors continue to help catalogers navigate the complex and flexible world of bibliographic data and networks. The introduction to the work points out the new issues that catalogers must deal with, including new forms of record access such as collaborative tagging, MARC 21 format for exchanging of data, and the proliferation of local and remote electronic resources. This volume explores all of these new developments, bearing in mind that kids are still buying and using books and other hard copy materials.

The book begins with a reprint of the Guidelines for Standardized Cataloging for Children sponsored by the Association for Library Collections and Technical Services. A chapter on the searching habits of children provides additional insights into the importance of quality cataloging and metadata, as well as the impact of the design of information retrieval systems, especially catalog interfaces. These two chapters serve as the anchor for the rest of the book.

This edition contains a new chapter that introduces readers to Resource Description and Access (RDA), the next generation of cataloging. This chapter is helpful not only for catalogers of children's materials but also anyone who is interested in the background and issues surrounding RDA. Helpful illustrations and notes explain many of the new terms and structures being discussed. A disclaimer at the beginning of the chapter points out the fluidity of the discussions and decisions yet to be made.

Another new chapter in this edition briefly discusses cataloging for non‐English and preliterate patrons. Visual catalogs for preliterate patrons receive brief treatment, but there are some helpful resources mentioned for non‐English‐speaking patrons, primarily Spanish‐language subject thesauri. The Dewey Decimal Classification online platform is also reviewed.

Throughout the book, information has been updated, including bibliographies and the directory of vendors for cataloging and bibliographic utilities. A helpful glossary and indexes are included at the end. Overall, this book will prove to be extremely valuable for catalogers of all types of materials and is highly recommended for all cataloging librarians and technicians.