Core Concepts
Cataloging
The process of creating bibliographic records for library materials, including description, subject analysis, and classification.
Dewey Decimal System
A classification system using 10 main classes (000-999) to organize library materials by subject.
Library of Congress Classification
A system using letters and numbers (A-Z) used primarily in academic libraries in the US.
Digital Library
A library where collections are stored in digital formats and accessible via computers.
Information Retrieval
The process of searching for documents, information within documents, or metadata about documents.
Knowledge Management
The systematic process of capturing, organizing, sharing, and using organizational knowledge.
Worked Examples & Applications
MARC Record Example: A Machine-Readable Cataloging record: 245 10 $a The Great Gatsby / $c F. Scott Fitzgerald. (245 = title statement, $a = title proper, $c = statement of responsibility)
Dewey Decimal Example: 300 Social sciences — 301 Sociology and anthropology — 302 Social interaction — 303 Social processes — 304 Factors affecting social behavior
Practice Questions
Q: What is the difference between a catalog and an index? A: A catalog lists entire documents (books, journals). An index points to specific parts within documents (articles, chapters, pages).
Q: What does OPAC stand for? A: Online Public Access Catalog — a digital interface allowing users to search a library's holdings.