This information will help you as you create the catalog records for your library. Level one cataloging Many small libraries use Level One cataloging which includes the title, author, edition, publisher, date, physical description of the book, notes, standard number, Dewey number, and subject headings. Library managers usually choose Level One cataloging when purchasing prepared catalog records, when staffing is inadequate, when the item can be found in a common bibliographic or reference tool, or when cataloging fiction or juvenile titles. One cataloging can be used in either catalog cards or MARC records. Other pieces of information can be added to the record if that would help library customers find materials.
Some catalogers add a summary of the book to assist customers in finding exactly what they want.
Full Cataloging records Many managers of small public libraries use Level One cataloging with the option of adding elements to the catalog record if that would help customers access the material more efficiently. Each library manager must decide just how detailed the catalog records need to be for the individual library. Purchased catalog records are usually full cataloging records, so no decisions need to be made in those cases. A library manager can provide a vendor with detailed information about how the purchased record will be customized for a particular library. Using subject headings A quick look at the table of contents, index, and any introductory material will help the cataloger find the subject matter of the item.