New cataloger training

Owned by MSU TechServices
Last updated: Aug 14, 2018
3 min read

Summary: Resources for training a new copy or original cataloger in the basics of descriptive work.


Suggested training progression & resources

TS employee basics

Some of this will overlap with the HR orientation checklist, but this makes sure TS-specific info is also included.

  • tour of the building & introductions
  • keys and entrances and library hours
  • units within Tech Services and their purpose
  • tour of the TS area
  • CMS meetings
  • larger library organization
  • intranet and staff directory
  • safety info
  • sysdoc, facilities, supplies, ergo
  • any computer training needed? Office Suite, etc.?
  • send out introductory email
  • a review of the annual evaluation process
  • time tracking
  • leave --> EBS
  • hours worked --> SMART system (for CTs only)
  • University policies
  • other HR checklist stuff

Cataloging theory and practice overview

  • principles
    • FRBR/LRM --> mapping entities & relationships between them in the bibliographic universe
    • neutrality --> historical expectation of catalogers, but much more complex than that
    • access --> accommodating different types of searching, online and in person
  • types of standards
    • descriptive standards
    • encoding standards
    • controlled vocabularies & authority control
    • classification
  • cooperative cataloging & shared records
  • library database software
  • distinction between copy and original cataloging
    • local parameters surrounding LA III and LA IV work
  • cataloging aids -- cheat sheets, bookmarks, etc.

Cataloging standards in depth

Sierra specifics

  • types of records in Sierra
    • item
    • order
    • check-in
    • authority
    • bib
    • diagram of these records and their interactions:

diagram of records and their interactions in the Sierra database

  • Sierra settings & preferences
  • indexing 
  • searching
  • public catalog display
  • Create Lists

Connexion training

  • Client overview
  • Module 1 - WorldCat, MARC, and Client Basics (1 hr 40 min)
  • Module 2 - Basic Bibliographic Searching (1 hr 14 min)
  • Module 3 - Basic Editing & Record Processing (1 hr 47 min)
  • Module 4 - Save Files, File Management, and Batch Processing (1 hr 18 min)
    • can skip batch processing if desired!
  • Module 5 - Automation and Customization (1 hr 22 min)
    • discuss constant data
  • Module 6 - Editing Master Records (1 hr 26 min)
  • Module 7 - Advanced Bibliographic Searching (1 hr 49 min)
  • Module 8 - Original Cataloging (1 hr 42 min)
  • Module 9 - Authority Control (1 hr 25 min)

Connexion practice

  • search for records using:
    • copycat problem backlog
    • shelf-ready problems
    • T Locs
  • attaching holdings
  • 949 strings and exporting


Local practice and workflows

  • an overview of how resources travel to and from your desk (blue actions handled by Acquisitions):

diagram of resource ordering and cataloging at MSUL

  • what all those flags mean
  • physical processing
    • locations & stamping
    • writing in call numbers
    • CP labeling truck
    • RUSH process and shelves
  • multipart works and how they're cataloged
  • continuing resources (at least a basic overview)
  • this position's specific responsibilities & workflows


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Recommended bookmarks

General info


Cataloging


Helpful MSUL TS procedures for beginners


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Policies

As with all new employees, new catalogers should complete the HR orientation checklist in addition to the cataloging-specific training outlined here. 

In particular, new catalogers MUST watch the RVSM training video. 

ContactJoshua Barton or Autumn Faulkner
TeamCMS
UpdatedAugust 2018
CreatedAugust 2018