Article
Sufficiency of Cataloging Education: School Librarians Respond
Journal of Education for Library and Information Science
(2019)
Abstract
No standardized learning outcomes exist for the cataloging education of school librarians in
library and information science (LIS) programs. Additionally, LIS programs teach cataloging
concepts in a variety of ways over various timeframes, raising the question of what it is that
LIS programs should teach about cataloging and classification to prospective school librarians.
The current literature offers limited guidance but does indicate that both theory and
practice are important in the process of learning cataloging. A survey of school librarians
was conducted to determine which cataloging and classification tools they use and which
skills related to cataloging and classification are most important. Results indicate that few
school librarians use descriptive cataloging tools such as AACR2 or RDA. Additionally, school
librarians do not rate or rank descriptive cataloging or controlled vocabulary as important
skills. Since descriptive cataloging guidelines and controlled vocabulary provide support for
FRBR user tasks and create a database that facilitates the many activities of school librarians,
this article suggests that LIS programs adopt a curriculum that communicates the value
of a standardized, quality catalog. Additionally, practicum opportunities with experienced
catalogers are an important element of cataloging education and should be incorporated
into the curriculum. Finally, LIS programs should be intentional about connecting students
to resources such as discussion groups and professional development opportunities that
will continue to support cataloging efforts after students graduate. Future research into
simplifying descriptive cataloging guidelines and determining essential MARC coding will
help guide curriculum development in LIS programs.
Keywords
- school librarians,
- school library media specialists,
- cataloging education,
- lis programs,
- lis curriculum
Disciplines
Publication Date
December, 2019
DOI
pdf/10.3138/jelis.2018-0072
Citation Information
Leslie A Engelson. "Sufficiency of Cataloging Education: School Librarians Respond" Journal of Education for Library and Information Science Vol. 60 Iss. 4 (2019) p. 285 - 311 ISSN: 0748-5786 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/leslie-engelson/13/