Guidelines for evaluation of Core Records

Model A: Information to be reported when communicating the efficacy of core level cataloging in original cataloging operations

1. Type of Library
   • Public
   • College
   • University
   • Special
2. Identify levels of cataloging compared
   • Core level compared to full level original cataloging
   • Core level compared to minimal level original cataloging
   • Core level compared to full level and to minimal level original cataloging
3. Describe level of authority work completed for each level of cataloging compared
   • No authority work
   • Local authority work only
   • Full NACO authority work
     • Number of headings created over duration of experiment
   • Full SACO
     • Number of headings proposed over duration of experiment
4. Describe the sample for each level of cataloging compared
   • Sample size (number of titles)
   • Format(s)
   • Subject area(s)
   • Language(s)
   • Library's classification scheme(s)
   • Span of imprint dates
5. Describe the unit of measure to be used in the comparison*
   • Overall productivity over the duration of the experiment
   • Production rate per individual cataloger per specified subunit of time
   • Average productivity per cataloger over duration of the experiment
   • Cost per item processed
6. Describe the methodology of the comparison
   • Staffing **
     • Number of staff involved
     • Level of staff
     • Years of experience of participating catalogers
   • Duration of experiment
   • How is data collected/reported?
   • Are any of the components of task separately timed?
     • Searching for copy
     • Authority work
     • Classification
     • Shelf listing
     • Data collection
     • Revision
     • Other
   • How are they timed/measured?
   • Other special conditions/activities/controls

* Apply measurement equally to both core and comparison level(s) and describe all components which are used to derive the measurement. For example, if the comparison is expressed as a cost number, are benefits included in the calculation of staff costs?

** In order to be meaningful, number, level and years of staff might be best expressed as a matrix which clarifies the inter-relationships between these data. If a matrix is not used, it is important that these inter-relationships be explicitly described in some way.