Cataloger: meaning, definitions and examples
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cataloger
[ ˈkæt.ə.ɡɔːr.ər ]
library science
A cataloger is a professional responsible for creating and maintaining metadata for items in a library or archive. This includes describing the content, structure, and context of materials in a systematic way that facilitates retrieval and access. Catalogers follow specific standards and guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy in the cataloging process. Their work is essential for organizing library collections and improving user experiences. In recent years, the role has evolved to include digital resources as libraries increasingly adopt technology.
Synonyms
indexer, librarian, metadata specialist.
Examples of usage
- The cataloger updated the system with new acquisitions.
- She works as a cataloger in a university library.
- The cataloger's attention to detail ensures accurate entries.
- A skilled cataloger can greatly improve search results.
- The cataloger trained staff on new cataloging software.
Translations
Translations of the word "cataloger" in other languages:
🇵🇹 catalogador
🇮🇳 कैटलॉग करने वाला
🇩🇪 Katalogisierer
🇮🇩 kataloger
🇺🇦 каталогізатор
🇵🇱 kataloger
🇯🇵 カタログ作成者
🇫🇷 catalogueur
🇪🇸 catalogador
🇹🇷 katalogcu
🇰🇷 카탈로그 작성자
🇸🇦 منظم الكتالوج
🇨🇿 katalogizátor
🇸🇰 katalogizátor
🇨🇳 目录编制者
🇸🇮 katalogizator
🇮🇸 skrásetjari
🇰🇿 каталогтаушы
🇬🇪 კატალოგიზატორი
🇦🇿 kataloqçu
🇲🇽 catalogador
Etymology
The word 'cataloger' is derived from the noun 'catalog,' which can be traced back to the Middle French word 'catalogue' (early 16th century), borrowed from the Latin 'catalogus,' and originally from the Greek 'katálogos', which means 'a list or register'. In the context of libraries, cataloging developed as an essential practice to organize materials efficiently, particularly as collections grew in number and complexity. The cataloger's role became increasingly important in the 19th and 20th centuries, coinciding with the professionalization of librarianship. The advent of technology in the late 20th century significantly changed the field, with digital cataloging becoming a crucial skill. Today, the cataloger's work involves both traditional cataloging and digital resource management, reflecting the changing landscape of information organization.