Fundamentals of Cataloging 2025 - Session 1.0
The Fundamentals of Cataloging (FOC) is a six-week online course that provides an introduction to the principles, policies and practices of cataloging in libraries. It is designed for librarians and library support staff new to cataloging; librarians and library support staff from other units who want to know more about cataloging; LSSC candidates pursuing certification in the Cataloging and Classification competency set; and experienced cataloging librarians and support staff seeking continuing education and networking opportunities.
Course components:
- Introduction to catalogs and cataloging, including an exploration into the principles behind the development and evolution of cataloging codes and rules
- Introduction to descriptive cataloging, including bibliographic description and descriptive access points with AACR2 and RDA
- Introduction to subject analysis and classification, with a focus on Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), Library of Congress Classification (LCC) and Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)
- Introduction to reading and understanding MARC 21 formats for bibliographic and authority data
- Exploration of the history of cooperative cataloging, current trends and some suggestions about the future for cataloging and bibliographic management
Learning Outcomes:
Students will gain a basic understanding of library cataloging concepts and practices.
Who Should Attend:
As a fundamentals course, FOC is tailored for librarians and library support staff new to cataloging, librarians and library support staff from other units who want to know more about cataloging, and experienced cataloging librarians and library support staff seeking continuing education and networking opportunities.
Cataloging librarians in countries other than the U.S. and library school students or graduates developing skills to help get a job or identify areas of interest in library work may also benefit from this course.