LIS 605 : Introduction to Cataloging and Classification Course Syllabus Spring 2011

Course Description

An introduction to the uses and techniques of cataloging and classification. Focus is on a MARC (MAchine Readable Cataloging) based system. The course covers descriptive cataloging, Library of Congress and Dewey Decimal classification schemes, Library of Congress subject headings, and on-line and shared cataloging options. Emphasis is on practical rather than philosophical topics, and on practice at the level common at academic or large public libraries.

Prerequisites:

American Library Association Core Competencies

• Knowledge organization—Students learn the basic principles of organizing bibliographic information in a library catalog through the description of resources and the provision of a variety of access points to those descriptions, including those prescribed by AACR2, Library of Congress Subject Headings, Library of Congress Classification call numbers, and Dewey Decimal Classification numbers.
• Technical knowledge—Students acquire basic knowledge of MARC (MAchine-Readable Cataloging) record structure. This knowledge is given practical application as students create electronic catalog records and conduct searching exercises using OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) software.
• Social, historical, and cultural context—Students are introduced to the history of the library catalog, the Library of Congress Classification System, and the Dewey Decimal Classification system. Issues concerning cultural viewpoints inherent in classification systems are discussed. Students are encouraged to think about the ramifications of cultural bias in classification systems.

Program Learning Objectives

• Demonstrate an understanding of the development, organization, and communication of knowledge;
• Apply basic competencies and knowledge that are essential for providing, managing, and designing information services in a variety of information environments;
• Demonstrate basic competency in the latest specialized information technologies; and
• Demonstrate the professional attitudes and the interpersonal and interdisciplinary skills needed to communicate and collaborate with colleagues and information users.

Course Learning Objectives

• Describe a book using the style prescribed by the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules;
• Describe a book using MARC format;
• Select and properly format access points for books;
• Classify a book using either Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress classification schemes;
• Apply subject headings and understand the nature of a thesaurus;
• Understand the benefits and problems of shared cataloging; and
• Catalog a book using an electronic cataloging program.

Teaching Method

Class meetings consist primarily of lectures and in-class exercises. In addition to attending classes, students will be expected outside of class to complete practical exercises in cataloging and classification using cataloging software.

Required Textbooks

• Anglo-American Cataloging Rules. Chicago: American Library Association. Latest edition. (Be sure to get the latest updates.) Note: A number of copies of this publication are available to be borrowed from the LIS lending library. Check with instructor for availability.

Grading Requirements

• AACR2 Quiz 20%
• LC Subject Heading Quiz 20%
• LC Classification Quiz 20%
• Dewey Decimal Classification Quiz 20%
• OCLC searching exercise 10%
• Deportment & attendance 10%

Technology Requirements

1. Each student will be expected to read and send email.
2. Each student will need to access an Internet-connected computer in order to complete homework assignments.

Professional Expectations

Course Outline

I. Introduction to cataloging and classification and bibliographic control

II. Descriptive cataloging and introduction to MARC record structure

A. Physical description

B. Choice of access

C. Headings for people

D. Headings for corporate bodies

E. Uniform titles

III. Library of Congress Subject Cataloging

IV. Library of Congress Classification

A. Introduction and basic concepts

B. The schedules

C. Cutter (book) numbers

V. Dewey Decimal Classification

A. Introduction and basic concepts

B. Summary tables and the relative index

C. The schedules

D. The tables

VI. Shared cataloging

A. OCLC

Course Schedule/Assignments

Note: If you need reasonable accommodations because of the impact of a disability, please 1) contact the Kokua Program (V/T) at 956-7511 or 956-7612 in room 013 of the QLSS; 2) speak with me privately to discuss your specific needs. I will be happy to work with you and the KOKUA Program to meet your access needs related to your documented disability.