Cataloging and Metadata
Comprehensive services that work together to improve results
Find the right cataloging service for your library
Cataloging solutions that work for libraries worldwide
Every country has its own library infrastructure, and its own way of managing and sharing resources. Many of the organizations and groups charged with delivering these infrastructures, choose to collaborate with OCLC and let us help contribute to the total solution they provide libraries in their region.
Not every region uses the same cataloging rules and standards. And, every region has its own resource sharing policies and guidelines. It is therefore essential that an individual approach to partnership and collaboration is formed that reflects the unique nature of every region’s infrastructure.
Here are some examples of collaboration that underpin the cataloguing infrastructure in other countries:
OCLC WorldShare Metadata
In addition to working with regional library groups worldwide, OCLC also has in development, its own full end-to-end solution for metadata management, known as OCLC WorldShare Metadata. OCLC WorldShare Metadata will provide a complete metadata management solution for physical, licensed and digital resources across multiple formats. This set of new applications and services will be made available in phases over the next three years. The changes are part of OCLC's strategy to provide Webscale solutions to the full range of library management needs, including acquisitions, license management, resource sharing and discovery.
WorldShare Metadata will be available to all libraries with an OCLC cataloging subscription and will work with other OCLC services as well as traditional library management systems. For libraries using WorldShare Management Services, WorldShare Metadata will fully integrate these functions in the same staff interface, significantly improving efficiency for “back office” operations.
Learn more about WorldShare Metadata »
Now available: collection management functionality that streamlines workflows for e-resources.
The commitment of librarians to cooperation and resource sharing is one of the greatest strengths of the profession.
Members use OCLC cataloging and metadata services, which are based on WorldCat, to extend and enhance the power of library cooperation. By being a part of this global community, you are building and enhancing an international, Web-scale resource for the library world that will help your users find information they need and increase the productivity of your staff.
Working together creates efficiencies for all.
Thanks to the ongoing work of dedicated OCLC member catalogers, WorldCat provides the most valuable data to keep collection information accurate. The need for original cataloging is minimized, and authority work is streamlined by automatic updating of controlled headings. Your technical processing will be faster and more accurate as members share the effort to create and maintain metadata for print, electronic and digital collections.
The cooperatives’ adherence to standards and principles underpin WorldCat and OCLC Cataloging services, making them two of the most trusted and valued resources in the library community. In addition, a dedicated staff of cataloging experts and researchers are constantly enhancing WorldCat-based services to keep members on the edge of innovation and to help libraries advance and adapt in changing times.
We can work with you to determine the best mix of services based on your workflow.
WorldCat Quality: An OCLC Report
This paper describes OCLC's steps to make it easier to find items in WorldCat and get them from OCLC member libraries.
OCLC WorldShare Metadata collection management introductory overview Webinar
David Whitehair: WorldShare Metadata Collection Manager - an introduction
Watch this space for Cataloging and Metadata Management presentations.
See all recent Cataloging and Metadata Management presentations »