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Cataloging Agent-Client Program

Introduction

The Montana Cataloging Agent/Client program enables copy cataloging libraries to have original cataloging records representing their unique, mainly Montana material uploaded to OCLC’s Worldcat database. Catalogers from full cataloging Montana libraries receive OCLC training, using the Connexion client, in batch import of new bibliographic records from the copy library, the creation of a special MARC tag containing the copy library’s OCLC code and the upload to WorldCat of the new bibliographic records for the copy library. The copy cataloging library is the “Client”. The full cataloging library is the “Agent”.

Responsibilities

The Client Library is responsible for the creation of basic, accurate MARC records representing unique material in their library for which there is no current record in WorldCat. Client libraries may have staff that can do this, with training, or may choose to hire a temporary cataloger. Clients then extract the records to a file, which is sent electronically to their agent to load into Connexion for processing and upload to WorldCat. (Montana Shared Catalog libraries are able to catalog using Sirsi’s Unicorn system and extract the records to send in an electronic file to their assigned Agent. Montana libraries using other library systems will need to verify that they can extract files of MARC records from their system.)

The Agent Library is responsible for checking the MARC record, validation of fields and indicators, entering the Client Library’s OCLC code correctly in the appropriate MARC field and uploading the record to WorldCat.

Interested?

If you are interested in being paired with a current Cataloging Agent or in training to become a Cataloging Agent, contact Sarah McHugh at the Montana State Library.

Agent-Client List