In Beginning Cataloging , Jean Weihs and Sheila Intner offer a pragmatic approach that combines short instructional explanations with extensive examples and exercises. The reader will learn how to apply standard descriptive cataloging rules to assign subject headings and classification numbers and to create electronic records. The book begins by examining the cataloging-in-publication data found on the verso of most books. Then, chapter-by-chapter, it explains how this data can be developed into a complete bibliographic record that can be used in an online public catalog. Covering all types of material formats, including books, audiovisuals, images, sound, electronic resources, and more, Beginning Cataloging conveys cataloging principles and practical methods for implementing them, empowering students with an understanding of the language of cataloging. Useful for library technicians and those working in areas where formal training is not accessible, the book can also be used as a workbook in formal education programs or distance education programs.
This book provides a nice introduction to library cataloging; however, the activities within the book can be problematic. Primarily, the answers to the questions are not always correct. Given the cost ($60 for 160 pages!) along with the publisher, I would expect better proofreading and editing. Overall, though, it is good for the beginning cataloger (or someone wanting to brush up on their cataloging skills quickly).
Had access to this for my cataloging class and it gave me what I needed to understand the basics very well. The descriptive cataloging section was a tiny bit convoluted but everything else was laid out well. Can't say anything to it's accuracy as I don't have enough experience.
As far as textbooks go I normally enjoy most of my LIS textbook's. in this one I found things difficult to find in some major portions of techniques of cataloging I found to be lacking or missing altogether ! If anyone can suggest another book for beginning cataloging as a reference please let me know
I read the first edition of Weihs' book while enrolled in an Associate program for Library and Information Science. Now for Spring 2024, I'm enrolled in a graduate-level course in Cataloging and the second edition of Weihs' book is one of the assigned texts.
This book is confusing and out of date for the way cataloging is done in most libraries in the modern age. The book is poorly organized. Descriptions and examples are not on the same page for easy comparison, and sometimes they are several pages apart.