Öffentliche Bibliotheken und Katalogisierung – eine Analyse der aktuellen Praxis in Deutschland

Abstract

The paper provides an overview of current cataloging practices in German public libraries. By means of an online survey, a representative sample of public libraries was asked to explain their cataloging procedures, e.g., with respect to copy cataloging or staffing. Views and opinions about the importance of cataloging and the competencies and skills needed in cataloging were also taken into account. The answers of 187 participating libraries show that there is a lot of diversity in cataloging practices. Another result was that the role of cataloging in German public libraries is much more important than is often assumed.