Example SOPs: Cataloging Library Technical Assistant

Cataloging Library Technical Assistant SOPs

Creating Standard Operating Procedures for your Cataloging Library Technical Assistant work can be difficult and take time. That’s why we’ve created these example Cataloging Library Technical Assistant SOPs so you can jumpstart your SOP creation process. We want to help you set up your Library systems and processes by taking these sample SOPs and building out your own SOPs template library. By having all your Library procedures in one place, your team will have the information they need at all times. Let’s look at some Cataloging Library Technical Assistant SOP examples.

Cataloging Library Technical Assistant SOP Examples

1. SOP: Cataloging Material Acquisition
Purpose: This SOP outlines the process for acquiring new materials for the library’s collection. It includes steps such as identifying the need for new materials, researching and selecting appropriate items, obtaining necessary approvals, and placing orders. The purpose is to ensure that the library’s collection remains up-to-date and relevant to the needs of its users.
Scope: This SOP applies to the Cataloging Library Technical Assistant responsible for acquiring new materials. It may involve collaboration with other library staff, such as subject specialists or collection development librarians.
References: This SOP may reference other related SOPs, such as the Collection Development Policy or the Budget Allocation Procedure.

2. SOP: Cataloging Material Processing
Purpose: The purpose of this SOP is to outline the procedures for processing newly acquired materials before they can be added to the library’s collection. It includes steps such as unpacking and inspecting items, assigning unique identifiers, applying security measures, and preparing materials for shelving or circulation. The goal is to ensure that all materials are properly prepared and ready for use by library patrons.
Scope: This SOP is the responsibility of the Cataloging Library Technical Assistant and may involve collaboration with other library staff, such as Circulation Assistants or Preservation Specialists.
References: This SOP may reference other related SOPs, such as the Circulation Policy or the Preservation and Conservation Guidelines.

3. SOP: Cataloging Metadata Creation
Purpose: This SOP outlines the procedures for creating accurate and consistent metadata for each item in the library’s collection. It includes steps such as analyzing the item’s content, assigning appropriate subject headings and classification numbers, and inputting the information into the library’s cataloging system. The purpose is to ensure that library users can easily locate and access materials based on their specific needs.
Scope: The Cataloging Library Technical Assistant is responsible for following this SOP. Collaboration with other library staff, such as Subject Specialists or Reference Librarians, may be necessary for specialized materials.
References: This SOP may reference other related SOPs, such as the Subject Heading Guidelines or the Classification System Manual.

4. SOP: Cataloging Authority Control
Purpose: The purpose of this SOP is to establish guidelines for maintaining consistent and accurate authority control in the library’s cataloging system. It includes steps such as verifying and updating authority records, resolving conflicts or inconsistencies, and ensuring that authorized access points are correctly linked to corresponding items. The goal is to enhance the discoverability and usability of the library’s collection.
Scope: The Cataloging Library Technical Assistant is responsible for implementing this SOP. Collaboration with other library staff, such as the Cataloging Librarian or the Systems Librarian, may be necessary for system maintenance and troubleshooting.
References: This SOP may reference other related SOPs, such as the Authority Control Policy or the Cataloging System User Manual.

5. SOP: Cataloging Quality Assurance
Purpose: This SOP outlines the procedures for conducting regular quality assurance checks on the cataloging records in the library’s system. It includes steps such as reviewing records for accuracy, consistency, and adherence to established cataloging standards, as well as identifying and correcting any errors or omissions. The purpose is to maintain the integrity and reliability of the cataloging data.
Scope: The Cataloging Library Technical Assistant is responsible for performing quality assurance checks according to this SOP. Collaboration with other library staff, such as the Cataloging Librarian or the Metadata Specialist, may be necessary for resolving complex cataloging issues.
References: This SOP may reference other related SOPs, such as the Cataloging Standards Manual or the Quality Control Checklist.

Note: The specific SOPs may vary depending on the library’s size, collection focus, and cataloging system used. It is important for the Cataloging Library Technical Assistant to consult their library’s policies, guidelines, and manuals for accurate and up-to-date information

Cataloging Library Technical Assistant SOP Templates

Looking for SOP templates for your Cataloging Library Technical Assistant work? We’ve got you covered. You can build out your company SOPs using the sample SOP information above (added to our template) or our team can put together a starter SOPs template based on your Cataloging Library Technical Assistant work. Get in touch if you’ve got questions about the quickest way to build out your Library SOPs library.