The Cataloging Department provides full original MARC cataloging, which meets national standards, when an appropriate record cannot be located in the Union Catalog or on OCLC. The goal of this Department is to reduce staff time spent on original cataloging in the member libraries and to create a quality MARC record that can serve as the standard record for the County.

The department is organized to process over 5,000 requests from member libraries each year for original cataloging. After the item has been cataloged, all names and subjects are reviewed by SCLS authority control personnel before the item is returned to the member library. Materials are generally cataloged and returned with in two weeks.

The vast range of materials offered by public libraries today offer unique challenges to cataloging professionals. In addition to monographs, cataloging information is generated for videotapes, CD's, multi-media products, software and other unusual items. Hundreds of questions are answered each year on cataloging or processing of nontraditional materials.

•Workshops conducted on a variety of relevant topics such as the use of the 21st edition of Dewey Decimal Classification to build Dewey numbers; and the use of Dewey for Windows.

•MARC Format training on a routine basis, with separate meetings for each of the formats: MARC Format for books, serials, sound recordings, video recordings, and computer files.

•Introduction to World Wide Web-based resources for member libraries and the cataloging of electronic resources.

•One-on-one training provided in the member libraries when a library begins to automate its catalog. Staff may be trained in the use of the MARC Format at SCLS and/or in the member library.

•Telephone assistance and advice on unique cataloging problems.