Cataloging Department Report 1998 Highlights
1. Continue to provide access to newly received library materials. All materials are cataloged as they arrive at the library and no backlogs are being created.
2. Plan for loading and problem solving of the retrospective analytics (approximately 40,000 unique records and 55,000 non unique records). Both unique and non-unique retrospective analytics have been successfully loaded into OSCAR. Smaller clean-up projects, such as eliminating duplicate records, move holdings and others, were planned and designed. Resources were allocated, guidelines were written and training sessions were conducted for individuals who are working on these projects. A large number of students were hired and trained. The expected date for the completion of these projects is December 1998.
3.Plan for loading of monograph retro-con records (approximate 165,000 records). This will require extensive review and problems solving. Still under discussion, since Cataloging is waiting for University Systems to write a new program to load these records.
4.Planning for the completion of the OhioLink large microforms project. A project manger was appointed. Planning and designing a procedure to accomplish this project was done. Hiring and training of many staff in the department to work (in addition to their routine work) on this project. This also included hiring a large number of students, training them to do the clerical work and freeing the staff time to do the planing and problem solving. As of to day, we have completed approximately 80% of the work. (100,000 records). This project received many compliments from the library community, especially from the ILL librarians, because these records are finally available to patrons and can be loaned.
5. Completing phase II of restructuring of the Cataloging Department. One section of the department (Theses and Special project) was eliminated and the staff were merged into other sections. The Coordinator of this section was assigned to perform original cataloging for all formats and all languages (this was defined as the most needed area for expertise).
6. Fill the vacancy in the Cataloging Department (Serial coordinator, LMAT2, LAI in Western language, LAI Administrative assistant, and one GA). The serial coordinator's position still under assessment, while all other positions were filled.
7.Complete the enhancing of the physical environment in the department. This year we ordered another 13 workstations. As a result of these purchases, everyone in the Cataloging Department will have a new workstation. Painting and installing of new tiles, lights, and general cleaning made the office area more livable and helped to increase staff morale and attitude, which contributed to increasing productivity.
8. Planning for another retreat to evaluate our accomplishments. This is on hold until the Technical Services Restructuring Working Group completes their work on new scenarios and the Director of TS makes a decision on how to reorganize TS.