Cataloguing and Classification: The Experience at INSTI-CSIR

Abstract

The paper looks at the activities of the various sections of Institute for Scientific and Technological fnformation (INSTI) Library, with emphasis on the Cataloguing and Classification section. As an automated Library, the software in use is CDS-ISIS (Computerized Documentation System - Integrated Set of Information Systems). Other cataloguing tools used in the sectioll include the Sears List of Subject Headings - for assigning the appropriate subject headings; and the Universal Decimal Classification (UDC) scheme - for determining the classification number. The holdings of the Library are listed in the Catalogue database. The paper also highlights pertinent aspects of cataloguing such as original cataloguing, copy cataloguing, descriptive cataloguing, and subject cataloguing. Some of the problems identified with cataloguing and classification have been discussed. Suggestions have been offered towards improving upon the weaknesses identified in the cataloguing procedure in Institute for Scientific and Technological Information (INSTI) of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).