Welcome to the Cataloging and Classification Unit
This Unit is deemed to be the centre of the Richard McMillan Library, where all print resources acquired are handled through a series of processes before being presented in the category it belongs to on the shelve, to facilitate easy access of the library’s collection by faculty, students and staff at any given time, for their research, teaching, learning and personal needs.
Cataloging System
The software used by the Unit to catalog and classify resources is KOHA, an open-source integrated Library Management System. The Head of the Unit and the Systems Librarian are responsible for the management of the software.
Cataloging Routines
Cataloging activities include descriptive cataloging and subject analysis, and classification of print textbooks and theses of students of the Institute.
Cataloging Standards
We work in accordance with international cataloging practices and standards such as the Library of Congress Classification Scheme, Resource Description and Access (RDA), Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), and Machine-Readable Catalogue (MARC21) exchange format. These are a set of comprehensive cataloging resources available online.
Bibliographic Data Sources
We create both original catalog records, and copy catalog records through the z39.50 functionality in the KOHA Library Management System, within the cooperative environment of Library of Congress (LC) Catalog, Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) and WorldCat with results edited where necessary. Also, data from descriptive information sources such as citation lists and indexes, Cataloging in Publication (CiP) and other copy records are used for catalog records with modifications made where required.
Classification & Preservation
The Library of Congress (LC) Classification Scheme is used for putting orders in the library’s collection. We repair worn out/ damaged materials and bind newspapers into single volumes for the longevity of library materials.