You're short-staffed in the library. How do you prioritize cataloging tasks effectively?

1 Assess Needs

Before diving into cataloging tasks, take a moment to assess the needs of your library. Look at the current backlog of materials that need cataloging and consider which items are most in demand by your patrons. If there's a high request rate for certain genres or formats, prioritize these for cataloging. Additionally, check if there are upcoming events or programs that require specific materials to be available. Understanding what your patrons need most will help you to create a priority list that reflects the immediate interests and requirements of your community.

2 Workflow Review

Next, review your cataloging workflow. In times of reduced staffing, it's crucial to streamline processes to avoid duplication of effort. Identify tasks that can be simplified or temporarily suspended without significantly impacting library services. For example, you might decide to catalog only the essential elements of a record, such as author, title, and subject headings, and leave the more detailed cataloging for a later time when staffing levels return to normal. This approach allows you to process more items and keep the collection circulating.

3 Delegate Wisely

Delegation is a powerful tool in managing a short-staffed library. Even if your team members are not professional catalogers, they may still be able to assist with simpler cataloging tasks. Provide quick training sessions on basic cataloging principles and assign straightforward tasks such as labeling, covering, or inputting simple data into the catalog. Reserve the more complex cataloging work for experienced staff to ensure accuracy and consistency in your library's catalog.

4 Utilize Technology

Technology can be your ally in times of staff shortages. Explore automated cataloging tools that can speed up the process, such as batch importing records from trusted sources. These tools can help you add multiple items to your catalog quickly and with fewer errors. Also, consider using library software that allows for copy cataloging, which is the practice of using existing bibliographic records from other libraries for similar items. This can save a significant amount of time and effort.

5 Prioritize Access

When prioritizing cataloging tasks, always keep access at the forefront of your decision-making. Concentrate on processing new releases and high-demand items that will circulate frequently. This ensures that your patrons have access to the latest materials and those with waitlists are satisfied promptly. For less sought-after items, consider a temporary shelving solution where patrons can still access these materials until they are fully cataloged.

6 Monitor Progress

Finally, it's important to monitor your progress and adjust your strategies as needed. Set realistic goals for what can be accomplished each day or week and keep track of what's been completed. This will help you to maintain a sense of achievement and momentum, even when resources are stretched thin. Regularly revisiting your prioritization strategy allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and ensures that the most critical tasks are always addressed first.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?