How to Be Cataloging Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 3, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Cataloging Technician is an important role in the library, as they are responsible for organizing, sorting and maintaining library materials. This is essential for libraries to function efficiently and allow patrons to access the resources they need. With the Cataloging Technician on the job, library materials are properly cataloged and shelved, making them easier to find.

cataloging ensures that the library's resources are accurately indexed and tracked, enabling staff to quickly locate and retrieve items when necessary. As a result, libraries can provide high-quality services that serve the needs of their patrons and communities.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Cataloging technicians typically need a high school diploma or GED to be considered for positions.
Take college-level classes in library science, computer science, and information management. Cataloging technicians need to have a strong knowledge of library science, computer science, and information management. Coursework in these areas can be found at most community colleges, vocational schools, and four-year universities.
Become familiar with the latest cataloging standards and procedures. Cataloging technicians must understand the latest cataloging standards and procedures in order to effectively organize and manage library collections.
Gain experience through an internship. Internships provide valuable experience and can help aspiring cataloging technicians develop their skills. Internships are often available in public libraries, school libraries, and other institutions that maintain large collections of materials.
Earn an associate degree or higher. A two-year associate degree or higher in library science is usually required for cataloging technician positions.
Apply for open cataloging technician positions. Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can begin applying for open cataloging technician positions. Many libraries keep their job postings online, so you can easily search for positions in your area.

Cataloging technicians are mainly responsible for organizing and maintaining library resources. Their job is to ensure that library collections are accessible and easy to use. To become a cataloging technician, one must possess strong organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of library systems.

A cataloging technician must also be proficient in cataloging standards and have an understanding of library classification systems. Qualified applicants must have a bachelor's degree in library science and experience working with library systems. With the right training and experience, a cataloging technician can help libraries provide better access to resources and make information more accessible to the public.

You may want to check Library Consultant, Cataloging Librarian, and Special Collections Librarian for alternative.

Job Description

Catalogs and maintains library collections by organizing and updating material descriptions in the library catalog system.
Enters bibliographic data into automated system and creates original catalog records for new materials.
Creates classification or subject headings for materials in accordance with established rules and regulations.
Searches online databases to determine appropriate bibliographic information for materials to be cataloged.
Resolves complex cataloging problems and consults with supervisory personnel as needed.
Compiles statistics and reports related to library cataloging activities.
Maintains knowledge of current cataloging standards, rules and procedures by attending professional workshops or conferences.
Answers reference questions related to cataloging, classification, or searching the library catalog system.
Assists with library weeding projects by evaluating materials and making appropriate decisions regarding retention or withdrawal of materials.
Assists library patrons in locating and using cataloged materials.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of library cataloging principles and standards, such as AACR2, RDA, LCSH, MARC, and Dewey Decimal
Ability to accurately analyze, interpret, input, and manage cataloging data in a library system
Knowledge of classification systems such as LC and Dewey Decimal
Ability to use cataloging tools such as OCLC and other library databases
Ability to provide customer service in a library environment
Ability to work effectively with a variety of people
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite software
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently

Organizational skills are an essential skill for a cataloging technician to have. Being able to prioritize tasks, maintain accuracy and attention to detail, and think critically about how to organize information as it comes in are all key components that help to ensure a successful cataloging system. Without these organizational skills, or the ability to quickly adapt and adjust to changing situations, a cataloging technician would be unable to keep up with the increasing demand of data that is needed.

Furthermore, without the ability to organize information correctly, it can lead to confusion and errors in the cataloging system which can ultimately be costly in terms of time and resources. By having strong organizational skills, a cataloging technician can help to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the cataloging system while saving time and money in the long run.

Library Aide, Library Fundraiser, and Library Technology Trainer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with cataloging library collections?
What cataloging software programs are you familiar with?
How do you stay up to date with changes in cataloging systems and standards?
How do you ensure accuracy in cataloging library materials?
Describe a project you recently completed involving cataloging library materials.
What methods do you use to establish relationships between related items in a library collection?
How do you handle requests from patrons to add or change information in the library catalog?
What challenges have you faced when cataloging complex or unusual items?
How do you establish and maintain consistency across a librarys collection of cataloged materials?
Are there any aspects of cataloging that you find particularly rewarding or enjoyable?

Common Tools in Industry

Library Management Software. A software system used to track, organize, and catalog library resources. (eg: Koha Library Management System)
Library Cataloging Software. Software used to enter and organize bibliographic metadata for library collection items. (eg: MARC Edit)
Barcode Scanner. A device used to quickly scan and record barcodes on library resources. (eg: Honeywell Voyager Barcode Scanner)
Database Management System. A system used to store and manage library data. (eg: MySQL Database Management System)
Classification System. A system used to organize library resources into categories based on certain criteria. (eg: Library of Congress Classification System)
Data Entry Software. Software used to enter data into a database. (eg: OpenOffice Calc)
Bibliographic Software. Software used to create citations for library resources. (eg: Zotero Bibliographic Software)
Metadata Editor. A program used to create, edit, and manage metadata for library resources. (eg: Dublin Core Metadata Editor)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association
Library and Information Technology Association
Special Libraries Association
American Society for Information Science and Technology
International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
Association for Library and Information Science Education
Association of College and Research Libraries
Association for Library Collections & Technical Services
Music Library Association
Medical Library Association

We also have Library Volunteer, Database Librarian, and Document Delivery Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Bibliographic Record. A bibliographic record is a detailed description of a published work, providing information about the title, author, publication date, and other relevant details.
Classification System. A classification system is a framework used to organize and categorize information. It is used in libraries, archives, and other organizations to file and store materials in a logical manner.
MARC Record. A MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) record is a structured set of data with specific fields that provide information about a library item.
Authority Record. An authority record is a record in a library catalog or database that provides information about the form of a name or title used to refer to an item.
Subject Heading. A subject heading is a term or phrase used to describe the content of an item in the library catalog. Subject headings allow users to search for items by topic.
Call Number. A call number is an alphanumeric code assigned to an item in the library catalog or database that identifies its location in the library.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Cataloging Technician do?

A Cataloging Technician is responsible for organizing and managing library materials, including books, periodicals, audio-visual materials, and digital resources. They also create metadata to accurately describe the materials and facilitate their discovery.

What qualifications are required for a Cataloging Technician?

Cataloging Technicians typically need a bachelor's degree in library science or information science. Those with knowledge of specific cataloging systems and experience using software such as MARC 21 and RDA often have an advantage.

What skills are important for a Cataloging Technician to have?

Cataloging Technicians must have excellent attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and knowledge of library standards and practices. In addition, they need to be able to work independently as well as part of a team.

What tools do Cataloging Technicians use?

Cataloging Technicians use a variety of tools to manage library materials. These tools include classification systems such as Library of Congress or Dewey Decimal, cataloging systems such as MARC 21 or RDA, and library software such as Koha or Evergreen.

What is the average salary for a Cataloging Technician?

The average salary for a Cataloging Technician is around $45,000 per year. Salaries may vary depending on experience, location, and the size of the library.