Cataloging at the WorldCat Level
Background
Due to the technical architecture of the Alma Network Zone, changes must be entered into the WorldCat bibliographic record or they will be lost when the Alma record is overlaid. By cataloging at the WorldCat level, CSU libraries improve discoverability for all CSU Primo users, not just their own users.
Policy Statement
- Members must commit to providing adequate and appropriate cataloging of materials at the WorldCat level;
- Corrections and changes to bibliographic records which enhance record retrieval are of primary importance;
- Corrections and changes to bibliographic records brought into Alma from WorldCat must be made to the master record in WorldCat not locally in Alma (to the extent possible).
Additional Rationale:
Beyond the technical requirements of the current ILS, upgrading records at the WorldCat level provides benefits to users of CSU libraries by improving discovery through other channels, such as OCLC discovery interfaces and search services using syndicated OCLC data, including Google and others. Despite the importance of WorldCat level cataloging, not all CSU libraries are able to do it for all materials. The rules governing OCLC authorizations and record editing are complex, and some libraries will not be able to change records in every bibliographic format. Thus the goal of this policy is to increase cataloging activity at the WorldCat level, with the realization that not all CSU libraries may ever be able to edit all types of records.
Action log
| Section | Point Person | Expected Completion Date | Last action taken | Next action required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Articulate the need for the policy (background) | TS Leads |
| 9/15/2016 - Policy drafted to ensure editing of master bibliographic records is done at the WorldCat level and not at the NZ or local level. | To be discussed with TS Working Group. |
Finalize Policy Statement | TS Leads |
|