Cataloging (Library Departments)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some call numbers run together while some call numbers have spaces in them?
For many years it was the library's policy to run the call numbers together without putting in spaces between breaks. This did (and still does) make it difficult to read the numbers. We are no longer doing this for new titles added to the collections, but we have not been able to space the run-together numbers. This is why you see call numbers both ways. If a call number is difficult to read and you are not sure where to look for the book, please ask for help at the Reference Desk.
How can I report a misspelling or some other problem I notice in the online catalog?
Please report problems to Martha Stackel, Head, Cataloging Department. Please be specific about the problem and which record it is in, giving author, title, and publication information. We thank you for your diligence and your help.
Why is it that foreign language bibliographic records sometimes look strange on my computer or my print-out?
It looks as if there are a lot of misspellings and errors! Most foreign language records include diacritics, those marks added to letters that distinguish phoentic values. Due to the vagaries of computers and software, these diacritics do not always show up as they should, thus the garbled appearance of some words.
What is it that you do in the Catalog Department?
The Catalog Department receives books and journals from the Collection Development Department and prepares them for the shelves. We select or compose bibliographic records, which include subjects, titles, authors, and call numbers, and add them to the library's catalog. We also perform the physical processing of affixing various labels and barcodes. We are responsible for the integrity and consistency of the College of Charleston online catalog. In addition, we withdraw books from the collection and do some repairs.
May I reserve a book that I see in the catlog marked "On Order"?
Yes, you may. Make a print-out of the title you would like to reserve and take it to the Circulation Desk. They will help you reserve the item.
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Reporting Problems
Cataloging Department Staff
