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Overview of Subject Analysis (Session 1)

  • Cataloging
  • Webinar
  • 2 CE Hours

Description

Series Description:

Do you work with cataloging or records maintenance at your library? Could you use a better understanding of how subject headings are assigned?

This three-part webinar series will focus on the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and assess existing subject headings in MARC format. The course is aimed at those individuals primarily practicing copy cataloging.

Through these three sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to gain an overview of the variety of subject heading systems, understand the rules for how LoC subject headings are assigned to a record, recognize the variety of RDA-related changes in subject authority records, explore MARC 21 for subject headings in bib records and LCSH authority records, and assess the quality of existing records. We will also cover catalogers’ judgement and bias.

Session Description:

This first session will give an overview of the process of subject analysis. We will describe the vocabulary and resources you need to get started.

Through this session, attendees will have the opportunity to…

  • explore the variety of subject heading systems
  • discuss cataloger’s judgment and bias
  • learn about MARC 21 coding for subject headings in bibliographic records and Library of Congress Subject Headings
Note:
  • Attendees must have attended the in-person or online version of our Fundamentals of Cataloging: Introduction or have an appropriate combination of other course work or experience with basic cataloging concepts and workflows.
  • Attendees should plan to have 2-3 physical items available at their desks during the session for hands-on practice time.

Who Should Attend

Individuals who are primarily responsible for copy cataloging tasks and anyone with an interest in the topic.

Presenters

Sarah Schaff Denison University Library

Sarah Schaff has had the good fortune to work for a handful of Ohio libraries since 2003 – and still loves her work. With a background in philosophy and library science, Sarah currently serves as the Discovery Librarian at Denison, a small liberal arts college east of Columbus. In her 8 to 5 life, Sarah takes care of the invisible systems and online resources that keep the library humming.