Descriptive and Subject Cataloguing : A Workbook

Summary: This is a workbook on descriptive and subject cataloguing; it contains practical examples and suggested solutions to reinforce theoretical concepts and practical application in descriptive cataloguing (using Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, 2nd ed., 1998 rev.), bibliographic classification (using Dewey Decimal Classification, 21st ed.) and assigning subject headings (using Sears List of Subject Headings, 17th ed.).

Key Features: (1) Includes examples for both manual and computerised creation of bibliographic records, thus preparing students for both automated and manual library and information service (LIS) environments.

Manual creation of bibliographic records remains crucial as it very clearly demonstrates the principles of descriptive cataloguing, bibliographic classification and assigning of subject headings.

It is also important for preparing individuals to work in LIS services in developing contexts which is prevalent in many parts of the world.(2) While the workbook uses Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, Dewey Decimal Classification and Sears List of Subject Headings as tools for information organisation, the major objective is to develop skills in information management and organisation using standardised tools. (3) While the workbook is likely to be predominately used in the instruction of first level library and/or information studies programmes offered by higher education institutions, it could very well be used in the LIS work environment. (4) The workbook alleviates the problem of a general lack of a good variety of readily available practical examples for purposes of demonstrating the basic principles of information organisation as well as provide LIS students with a resource which can be used as a self-study tool to practice information organisation skills for which there is only limited classroom time available. (5) The workbook includes examples on developing skills in creating bibliographic records for non-print media, thus embracing the inclusion in collections of print as well as non-print items, particularly multi-media items.The Authors: Dr Jaya Raju is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Studies at the Durban Institute of Technology, South Africa.

Reggie Raju is a Principal Librarian at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.

Readership: The workbook is primarily aimed at students in first level library and/or information studies programmes such as a Bachelor of Information Science, Diploma in Library and Information Studies, Post-graduate Diploma in Information Studies, Masters in Information and Library Science (US).

It may also be used by LIS practitioners for purposes of continuing LIS education and training.

Contents: Introduction Theoretical principles of information organisation: an overview Practical examples Suggested solutions Tutorial for self-evaluation