I am very
eager to see changes take place in library catalogs (a.k.a. OPACS), whether
they be proprietary catalogs--like this week's articles describe--or OSS. It
seems to me that when words like "closed" and "rigid" are
used to describe catalogs; then there is a problem, especially for public
libraries. After all, the aim of a good catalog is to connect users to the
information that they seek (Antelman 128).
Ultimately,
it is pretty clear that user interaction with library catalogs is the way libraries
are heading, and the best way to approach this--at this point, since not all
users (and librarians) are ready--is by offering users the option like NCSU did with the Endeca
platform cited in "Toward a 21st Century Library Catalog," or the
other platforms mentioned in the other works (e.g. WorldCat Local and the
variety that Thompson, Julich, and Robertson mention). I know that other libraries like BPL and
NYPL*, who both currently use BiblioCommons, still offer the option of their former platforms. In fact, even smaller libraries, like
Wellesley Free Library offers the option.
They use Innovative Interfaces’ Classic catalog and Encore.
The
question to be considered by librarians, especially future catalogers, is this:
why are catalogs considered “stagnant technology” when so many exciting changes are happening (Antelman 128)? And why aren't catalogers focusing upon user interfaces, or the "front end," of the catalog? Our work should not only be creating and managing access, but designing it, too!
Exciting stuff! Many see cataloging as a thing of the past, but I suspect the "cataloging mind" will be greatly needed as information grows and becomes more and more complex to harness and organize.
Exciting stuff! Many see cataloging as a thing of the past, but I suspect the "cataloging mind" will be greatly needed as information grows and becomes more and more complex to harness and organize.
To be continued...
*NYPL currently uses Bibliocommons and Innovative Interfaces' WebPAC PRO for their "Classic" Catalog.
Antelman, K., Lynema, E., & Pace, A.K. Toward a 21st Century Library Catalog, 2006. In Information Technology and Libraries. American Library Association. pp.128-139.
Boock, Michael, Chadwell, Faye, & Reese, Terry. WorldCat Local Task Force Report to LAMP. 2009.
Thompson, Brian, Julich, Sue, & Robertson, Wendy C. Next Generation Catalogs, 2008. In Iowa Library Association.
