Cataloger

The Cataloger mostly performs copy cataloging for books and other materials, which entails editing records found on the OCLC database of cataloging records. After gaining the appropriate amount of experience, the cataloger performs some original cataloging, which entails contributing new records to the OCLC database. Cataloging is completed according to standardized rules for cataloging (e.g. Resource Description and Access (RDA), and MARC 21).

The employee in this position will have the following essential job functions:

• To make sure the correct bibliographic records were chosen during the receiving (Acquisitions) process for newly purchased items, and to make sure information in the local holding records for new items is complete and correct.
• To upgrade minimal level bibliographic records and enhance records with contents notes and other fields where appropriate.
• To make sure that newly added items are classified and shelved with any other editions, translations, copies or volumes of the title that are already owned by the library.
• To search the call number of each new item in the library’s database to make sure it does not duplicate the call number of a different title.
• To make sure name, subject and series fields in records are linked to their authority records.
• To count and record the number of gift items, search for matching bibliographic records and complete the cataloging process for them.
• To help select classification numbers in the Dewey Decimal and Library of Congress Classification systems depending on the various collections. To assign author (Cutter) numbers and accession numbers as needed.
• To label books and other items. To laminate paperback books and apply jacket covers to hardback books.
• To change classification numbers, relocate books from one collection to another, and to withdraw lost books from the library collection when directed to do so.
• To support the mission and goals of the Seminary and the library.
• To keep daily, monthly, and annual statistics of items completed.
• After two years in the position, the Cataloger can train new hires in the above procedures.

Performs other duties as may be assigned by supervisor.

The person in this position should have a high school education. Some college education is preferred as is familiarity with a foreign language: German and Latin are more useful. If the person catalogs music materials, he/she should be knowledgeable in classical music forms and contemporary Christian music. It is helpful when the cataloger is knowledgeable in biblical studies or church history.

The person in this position should have experience which would show attention to detail, proofreading skills, and good reading comprehension for understanding directions and manuals. Library experience in the technical services side or bookstore experience would be helpful.

The person in this position will supervise: no one. After two years in the position, the Cataloger can train new hires in the above procedures.

The person in this position will report to: the Director of Technical Services.

The person in this position will work in: an office, sitting at a computer all day. The person moves books from shelves to carts during the week. The concentration required for cataloging materials for extended periods of time can be mentally fatiguing and straining on the eyesight. Extreme accuracy is required to describe each item, to make sure the call number on each item matches the bibliographic record created for the item in order for patrons to find the material on the shelves. It is a quiet environment.

The person in this position will use the following equipment: computer, copier/printer, book carts.