Cataloging and Indexing

Cataloging and indexing in library and information science refers to the goal of identifying the most important characteristics of an information source and describing those characteristics using a standard cataloging or indexing system. Libraries have developed sophisticated ways of categorizing information so that library users can most effectively find the materials they need. This book covers a wide range of important issues in the field, including archival finding aids, search engines, the major indexing and abstracting databases, subject guides, vendor-supplied cataloging records, metadata, and much more. Readers will gain an appreciation of the importance of the role of cataloging and indexing of library materials.

Joyce McIntosh is the Outreach and Assistive Technology Librarian at Elmhurst Public Library in Elmhurst, Illinois, in the United States. She has an undergraduate degree in journalism from Michigan State University and a graduate degree in library and information science from Wayne State University. Prior to earning her graduate degree, she worked for a daily newspaper as well as for the Sierra Club, an environmental organization. Her two primary interests in librarianship are intellectual freedom issues and assistive technology. Assistive technology consists of hardware, software, and special furniture or tools designed to enable people who have disabilities of all kinds to access library materials and technological tools. Being able to work in a place where she can focus on both of these interests, and at a public reference desk where every day can feel like a “pop quiz,” makes librarianship the most fulfilling job she can imagine. In addition to her work, she enjoys reading, running, baking, and playing the violin.