RCB Library Notes
Library's computerised catalogue system makes progress
LIBRARY'S COMPUTERISED CATALOGUE SYSTEM MAKES PROGRESS
In late 2002 the RCB Library began a long term project to convert the card catalogue of printed books to a computer format. The intention is that, eventually, a computerised catalogue will be available on-line through a Library website. It is hoped that this will assist those who are engaged in distance learning, especially those in training for ministry, while, at the same time, improving library efficiency.
The first part of this project has been successfully completed with bibliographical records for some 10,000 books in everyday use downloaded from a BNB database and adapted to local use. This part of the new catalogue is already in use in the Library but is not yet available on-line.
The second part of the project will be to identify a suitable database from which to download the remainder of the books which are regularly used, especially by ordinands. These are mostly American and European publication, together will those from less well know British and Irish publishers. This will require the re-cataloguing of approximately another 10,000 titles.
After this, some 30,000 items will remain to be retrospectively catalogued. These comprise books and pamphlets which are not in regular demand together with the older printed books collection - items published before 1850.
Mary Furlong, Library Administrator, downloading records from the BNB database
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