Conundrums for Rare Book Catalogers

Abstract

Rare book cataloging can be a lonely business. Many institutions employ a single rare book cataloger, or perhaps half of a rare book cataloger, who bears responsibility for conceiving, rationalizing, and implementing a sensible, cost-effective rare book cataloging program. In addition to whizzing through massive backlogs, preferably at the speed of light, we single-handedly establish descriptive cataloging policies, find the means to implement an array of special files, and try to ensure that the needs of rare materials are not forgotten in development of online catalogs. It is a complex job, and when we are on our own, it is . . .