What is RDA?
RDA stands for Resource Description and Access. It is the new cataloging standard, replacing AACR2. RDA is based on the FRBR (functional requirements for bibliographic records) and FRAD (functional requirements for authority data) concept models. FRBR and FRAD are models which are internationally recognized as viable and valuable ways to conceptually structure and retrieve information.
How long has RDA been available and are catalogers using it now?
RDA has been widely disseminated in various drafts for a few years. Most catalogers are familiar with some of the concepts in RDA, although few are expert at the new rules yet. This is partly because in the United States RDA was not universally accepted upon release in June of 2010. Instead the Library of Congress and 25 other libraries will test the new rules during a nine month period.
This test began this summer and will continue until April of 2011. At that time the Library of Congress will make a recommendation as to whether they feel it is worth it to adopt RDA or not. Until the Library of Congress commits to the new rules, most other U.S. libraries are continuing to catalog using AACR2 rules. However, there are 25 libraries assisting with the national test that are, of course, cataloging using RDA. As of early Nov. 2010, there were approximately 3000 RDA records in OCLC.
How will RDA impact the library?
RDA itself is available in electronic form. Since the rules are completely restructured to follow a FRBR concept, it can be difficult to locate the pertinent rules, even for experienced catalogers. Every cataloger will have to be trained in the new rules as will most acquisitions staff. Circulation and reference staff will also need to be aware of certain changes which will affect access. In short, you can expect your library to have to be involved in a level of training equivalent to purchasing a new ILS.
How long has RDA been available and are catalogers using it now?
RDA has been widely disseminated in various drafts for a few years. Most catalogers are familiar with some of the concepts in RDA, although few are expert at the new rules yet. This is partly because in the United States RDA was not universally accepted upon release in June of 2010. Instead the Library of Congress and 25 other libraries will test the new rules during a nine month period.
This test began this summer and will continue until April of 2011. At that time the Library of Congress will make a recommendation as to whether they feel it is worth it to adopt RDA or not. Until the Library of Congress commits to the new rules, most other U.S. libraries are continuing to catalog using AACR2 rules. However, there are 25 libraries assisting with the national test that are, of course, cataloging using RDA. As of early Nov. 2010, there were approximately 3000 RDA records in OCLC.
How will RDA impact the library?
RDA itself is available in electronic form. Since the rules are completely restructured to follow a FRBR concept, it can be difficult to locate the pertinent rules, even for experienced catalogers. Every cataloger will have to be trained in the new rules as will most acquisitions staff. Circulation and reference staff will also need to be aware of certain changes which will affect access. In short, you can expect your library to have to be involved in a level of training equivalent to purchasing a new ILS.
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