INFOhio creates additional cataloging templates, docs for SirsiDynix

The combined efforts of several INFOhio users of SirsiDynix WorkFlows^®, INFOhio Technical Services staff and ITC providers have successfully created several cataloging templates for equipment and locally produced materials to assist library staff with cataloging needs in these areas. The templates have several tags already completed or entered with sample text for the user to amend. For some tags, the presence of XXXX denotes entries that require appropriate information for the item being cataloged. Unwanted fields can be deleted. Directions are two pages for each new template, including screen shots of the blank template and a completed record.

While developing the new templates, the cataloging work team revised sections 11 and 12 of INFOhio's documentation for the Java client for SirsiDynix WorkFlows. Those INFOhio library automation customers who need the username and password for the Java client manual should contact the ITC provider who provides their support.

Those instances still using the C client for WorkFlows have access to the templates and can use the Java client documentation satisfactorily. Those not automated with INFOhio are welcome to use the templates, but there is no generic documentation for them on INFOhio’s Web site

Section 11 has been arranged in the order of the cataloging process. Section 11.4 explains The INFOhio Cataloging Method, a tested rubric for processing new materials in the WorkFlows environment and an important document to review. The process leads the cataloger from checking the local database, using SmartPort to match against other databases (e.g., INFOhio's Curriculum Resources Catalog, the Library of Congress catalog), through the use of the new templates.

Section 12, Other Cataloging Functions and References, explains more sophisticated cataloging procedures and original cataloging "from scratch."

The new templates join 13 templates INFOhio has already made available for various types of commercially published materials, such as books, serials and many formats of audio visual recordings. Standard templates are also in INFOhio's Curriculum Resource Catalog, and documentation is available on the INFOhio Cataloging Template Instructions page.

At a recent Technical Roundtable, Theresa M. Fredericka, INFOhio Executive Director, praised all those involved in the effort to create the new templates and documentation. "This work team approach proves how INFOhio can add value to a vendor's product with minimal costs, all the while benefiting the hundreds of school librarians and their support staffs across our state. Of course, the ultimate beneficiaries are Ohio's K-12 students, who can find materials they need easier with high-quality cataloging records, along with the assistance of library staff who have more time to devote to helping students learn and helping educators teach."