Enhancing Bibliographic Access to Dissertations

Abstract

A study of dissertation cataloging practices of Association of Research Libraries academic libraries was conducted to discern how the libraries provide access to subjects as well as to names of academic departments and advisors. An analysis of catalog records revealed this information is recorded in notes and uncontrolled access points more often than in established access points. Although these local practices reflect a move toward cataloging efficiencies, they must be considered in the context of information retrieval.