The information given by Mr. Hershkowitz is very sketchy and we need to know more about him, the public that is served, and the equipment is using.
1. It seems that Mr. Hershkowitz is doing original cataloging on each item. He should at least consult NUC find LCCN's and order cards from the Library of Congress if this is the way he wants to go. He should also order tables of whatever classification scheme he is using. Even if he is on a limited budget it would greatly simplify and streamline his work if there was some kind of copy cataloging piece. As we all know copy cataloging and original cataloging does not always go smoothly. There are authority, publication, and other technical issues that arise with each title and this makes it difficult to give an absolute figure on the amount of time it takes to catalog 12,000 volumes. 2. What is Mr. Hershkowitz's experience with cataloging? We all know that the more experienced cataloger the greater the productivity. It is difficult to determine how he as an individual cataloger will be able to even project the amount of titles he can do while working alone. Furthermore, what mechanism's are available for such things as book finishing and shelving. If he is doing technical services from a to z alone then these other parts of the process will also impact on his productivity. 3. It also seems that he has no budget. The cataloging process even done minimally requires money. His salary, library supplies, shelving, etc. Before one embarks on a project and establishes a game plan there needs to be a plan worked within budgetary limitation. Without such a plan it is hard to determine the time needed to catalog 12,000 volumes. 4. He also states that some books need repair and are missing important sources of information for cataloging. How are these books being repaired? What money is available for supplies to repair? These additional duties done by one person also impacts on the time needed to complete the task. 5. Why not seek an inexpensive automated system. Is Mr. Hershkowitz familiar with such systems to choose the most appropriate? Has he ever used an automated system? The bottom line is that it is impossible to determine the amount of time needed for the project based on Mr. Hershkowitz's post. I would suggest that he addresses these issues create a plan, and not burden himself with establishing goals without them being well thought out. I have only listed some of the issues to be considered, there are many more that are beyond the scope of a post to discuss. Mr. Hershkowitz should visit a small library with similar holdings and issues, get some ideas create a draft for a plan and then perhaps we could better answer his question. Eliezer M. Wise Library Director Tuttleman Library of Gratz College 7605 Old York Road Melrose, Park, Pa. 19027 215-635-7300 x 159 [EMAIL PROTECTED] =========================================================== Submissions for Ha-Safran, send to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] SUBscribing, SIGNOFF commands send to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Questions, problems, complaints, compliments;-) send to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] AJL HomePage http://www.JewishLibraries.org
