ABSTRACT How do we demonstrate the value of cataloging to doubting library administrators? What sort of data need to be gathered to support this effort? Catalogers face a dilemma in that they often have to endure misunderstanding of their jobs from colleagues, patrons, and, most unfortunately, administrators. If the library cataloging practice is to continue evolving then administrators should be informed of the long- and short-term effects of investing in professional catalogers and cataloging departments. This paper examines cataloging practice from the point of view of library administrators with the aim of clarifying strategies that will ensure both quality of cataloging and the longevity of the cataloging process. In order to do this, we must demonstrate the quality of our work as it relates to funding, information systems, and the indispensable library patrons.