The first course in this series introduces you to the function and purpose of the library catalog. Following courses focus on the essentials of how classification and call numbers are used in libraries, how subject headings work in catalog records, and finally an overview of MARC records and the basics of copy cataloging. 
Format: Self-paced course
Developed by: WebJunction and the Idaho Commission for Libraries
Length: 1 hour
Overview:
In this course, you will learn what a library catalog is, the purpose of a catalog, and how a library’s catalog is essential for providing core library services, such as reliable access to collections. You’ll also be introduced to basic terminology related to a library’s catalog and learn about the most important elements in a bibliographic record.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Describe why libraries catalog their collections
- Recognize basic terms related to a library’s catalog
- Successfully perform simple and advanced searches in a library catalog
- Use a library’s catalog to support readers advisory services
This course contains AI-generated text-to-speech.
Format: Self-paced course
Developed by: WebJunction and the Idaho Commission for Libraries
Length: 1 hour
Overview:
In this course, you'll learn about a variety of library classification systems and how they organize library materials to make it easier for library users and staff to locate and browse the physical collection. You’ll also learn about the importance of call numbers in library classification.
Learning objectives:
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Describe the purpose of classification systems in libraries
- Identify at least three classification systems
- Read DDC and LCC call numbers and understand their component parts
- Use your knowledge of classification systems to inform patron interactions
This course contains AI-generated text-to-speech.
Format: Self-paced course
Developed by: WebJunction and the Idaho Commission for Libraries
Length: 1 hour
Overview:
In this course, you'll learn about the purpose of library subject headings and why librarians choose to assign certain types of headings to materials. You’ll learn about different subject heading systems and why libraries may choose one kind over another. You’ll also learn how subject headings developed and how they change.
Learning objectives:
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Describe the purpose of subject headings
- Identify what types of subject headings can be used to describe library materials
- Recognize several different subject heading systems
This course contains AI-generated text-to-speech.
Format: Self-paced course
Developed by: WebJunction and the Idaho Commission for Libraries
Length: 2 hours
Overview:
In this course, you'll learn about MARC records and what makes a quality bibliographic record. This knowledge will build the foundation for your copy cataloging skills. It is strongly encouraged to download the handouts before beginning this course because they contain essential information for learning this content.
Learning objectives:
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Match the correct bibliographic record to an item
- Recognize problems in bibliographic records
- Apply what you’ve learned to accurately add a bibliographic record to the catalog
- Interpret the most commonly used fields of a MARC record when copy cataloging
This course contains AI-generated text-to-speech.