Data and cataloging

WorldCat Local data- and cataloging-related FAQs

• My library adds its holdings to WorldCat through a monthly batchload. With WorldCat Local, it sounds as if our holdings would always be out of date. How can we make sure users see the most up-to-date information about our collections?
  
  OCLC staff will work with you to modify your current practices in ways that ensure delivery of up-to-date information about your collections. This will require a change in the frequency of your batchload to daily updates.
• When a library requests a reclamation project in preparation for WorldCat Local, can serials holdings be included with the linked bibliographic information on those "reclaimed" records so they are also included in our daily batchloads going forward?
  
  OCLC can create institution records (IRs) for your library. These IRs are not limited by format. While a library can get IRs for serials records, the holdings data elements still must be on LHRs. Institution records do not currently display in WorldCat Local, but this is planned as a future enhancement.
• If I catalog a record today, when will it be visible through WorldCat Local?
  
  New cataloging additions to your collection will be visible in WorldCat Local within 24 hours.
• Do you have any experience with libraries needing to clean up their OCLC data before implementation? How long might that take?
  
  Yes. The amount of time required for cleaning up a library's OCLC data will vary from library to library, depending on the type and quantity of work required. Consult with your OCLC representative to discuss options for completing this work as efficiently as possible.
• What about local cataloging that isn't in the WorldCat database?
  
  Local information that is present in your catalog, but not in WorldCat, will not display in the WorldCat Local interface. Consult with your OCLC representative about getting your holdings into WorldCat. This usually can be achieved through a retrospective batch load.
• I've heard there is a problem with MeSH records in WorldCat. Is this true?
  
  MeSH is currently not indexed for searching, but OCLC does plans to include MeSH from Medline metadata with the rest of the subject index searches later in 2008.

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