What is cataloging?
Cataloging is the process of describing an item such as a book, videocassette, microfilm, etc. that will be in our library collection. This description becomes a catalog entry in our online catalog and includes information such as the author, title, edition, place of publisher, publisher, date, etc. This process makes it possible to retrieve materials in the library by author, title, keyword, date, etc.

Cataloging also involves assigning subject headings and a classification number (or call number).

A subject heading is a word or group of words indicating a subject of the work. For example, if a patron wanted a book on candies and sweets, they would find it by looking for subject "Candy". Every item about candies and sweets would be assigned this subject heading.

A classification number (or call number) is assigned to an item of a collection to show the subject area and where it is located on the shelf. For example, a book about candy may have the call number: TX783.B62 2002. This classification number would usually appear on the spine of the book.

In summary, cataloging provides access to materials by author, title, subject, keyword, and location (e.g. location on the shelf, Internet address or URL, etc.)

The Cataloging department of E. Y. Berry Library-Learning Center is located on the upper floor of the library. If you need assistance regarding cataloging, please contact Mike Tolan at (605) 642-6356.