Metadata and Digital Library Services

Map Cataloging

Since July 2002, after attending a map cataloging workshop at the Annual Conference of the American Library Association, the former Map Librarian, Andrew Nicholson, and the Head of Metadata and Digital Library Services, Carol Hixson, developed procedures for fast cataloging of maps. Fast cataloging at the University of Oregon is a process where staff search for matching bibliographic records in the international OCLC database, verify that those records have necessary data elements, add local data (such as call number), and then bring those modified records into the Libraries' online catalog. Until recently, this process has only been utilized for books, generally those from domestic trade publishers. For such a process to work, there must be high-quality records available in OCLC. A target group of maps was identified and testing began. After testing was complete, Metadata and Digital Library Services staff began to catalog the geologic and scientific map series from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) using the new procedure. For an example of what these records look like, search in the online catalog under the call number G3701s

In January 2003, selected Collection Development and Acquisitions Department staff were trained to use the fast cataloging procedure for maps. Because this work is an added responsibility for both MSDP and CDA staff, it is done as time permits.

Although a few maps had been cataloged before by an earlier Map Librarian, this effort represents the first time at the UO Libraries that a broad group of people has been part of the effort and that we will be working our way systematically through the collection. The next stage will be to develop procedures for more complex copy and original cataloging. More than 250,000 maps in the UO Libraries' Map Collection will be cataloged by the time the project is complete.

Maintained by: MSDP, msdpweb@uoregon.edu
Last Modified: 01/10/2008