Sample interview questions: Can you discuss your experience in cataloging materials with non-traditional or alternative titles?
Sample answer:
In my role as a Cataloging Librarian, I have had extensive experience cataloging materials with non-traditional or alternative titles. These materials may include items such as self-published books, zines, e-books, multimedia resources, and various forms of digital media.
When encountering materials with non-traditional titles, one of the key challenges is ensuring that these items are discoverable and accessible to library users. To address this, I employ a variety of cataloging techniques and principles to accurately describe and classify these materials.
Firstly, I thoroughly evaluate the content of the material to understand its subject matter and intended audience. This allows me to determine the appropriate metadata elements to include in the catalog record. I carefully analyze the structure and organization of the item, identifying key elements such as titles, subtitles, authors, contributors, and any unique identifiers.
Next, I apply standardized cataloging rules such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) or Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR2) to create consistent and coherent catalog records. These rules provide guidelines on how to record title variations, alternative titles, and subtitles. By adhering to these rules, I ensure that the catalog record accurately reflects the content and facilitates effective retrieval.
In cases where the non-traditional title may not adequately convey the subject matter, I utilize additional access points and subject headings to enhance discoverability. This may involve assign… Read full answer
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