Cataloger

NATURE AND SCOPE:

The Cataloger assigns subject headings to books and other library materials, verifies or establishes the standard form of names of authors and institutions, and classifies materials to establish their shelving location. While adhering to cataloging rules and styles, catalogers must also be creative when needed and able to adjust the rules when a new type of material or cataloging situation presents itself. Cataloging librarians often deal with large backlogs of materials needing processing, so it is vital for them to communicate with other library staff members to find out what materials are the highest priority and need cataloging first.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Develop and implement goals and objectives for cataloging activities
• Respond to cataloging-related inquiries or problems
• Perform original and complex copy cataloging of library materials, including rare books, reference books, and serials 
• Interpret and apply relevant standards such as Library of Congress subject headings, Library of Congress classification, AACR2, RDA, and OCLC
• Create, import, and update bibliographic records
• Search and download MARC records from OCLC Connexion to the local ILS (Sierra) and contribute original MARC records to OCLC
• Maintain accuracy of bibliographic records for serials by creating/loading new catalog records for title changes and updating existing records of former titles
• When a book or other item arrives at the library, the Cataloger must manage the entry into the inventory collection.
•  In the case of donated items, the Cataloger must determine whether or not it is suitable for the library's collection. If so, they check to see if the library is already in possession of the item and compare the condition, the edition, type of cover, and printing date, and, in the case of duplicates, determine if extra items are needed.
• Determine the accurate description of the item (including author, title, publisher, publication date, and series to which the item may belong.
• Adhere to CONSER standards for participation in the Library of Congress PCC/BIBCO cataloging program
• Create a new name and corporate authority records and update existing ones based on current RDA standards. Furthermore, if authorized, make proposals for new LC subject headings appropriate to the library's scope.
• Prepare statistical reports
• Manage special cataloging projects such as the elimination of backlogs 
• Determine the classification number to determine where the book will be shelved.
• Classify or reclassify items as necessary.
• Analyze, improve and expand pre-existing bibliographic records in the library database to ensure that these records will fully and accurately represent the library materials in the library's catalog.
• Assure that the records will be accessible through various automated search techniques.
• Keep abreast of continuing developments in cataloging.
• Work closely with other library departments' catalogers, reference, and processing staff to provide enhanced access to collections and institutional consistency.
• Work on catalog maintenance projects as assigned, such as reclassifying materials, changing call numbers, or correcting and enhancing pre-existing records in the library's catalog. 
• Delete items/records from the database when the Chief Librarian instructs
• Provide bibliographic clarification and problem-solving to staff members.
• Provide overall maintenance and repair of library materials.
• Assist other staff members and students in whatever area help is needed. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPENTENCIES:

• Demonstrated knowledge of RDA standards and AACR2
• Demonstrated knowledge of Library of Congress Subject Headings
• Knowledge of CONSER standards and practices
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment to meet planned goals
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail