Stepping Out: The Expanding Role of Catalogers in Academic Libraries and Academic Institutions

Abstract

The stereotype of the cataloger as an isolated, back-room practitioner has persisted among many in the profession, despite years of evidence to the contrary. This paper examines some roles that catalog librarians have long played within their institutions and outside of technical services. The example of the various roles catalogers have assumed at Cornell University Library is used to illustrate some of the possible ways catalogers contribute to the research and teaching missions of the institution that extend beyond their traditional roles. The paper also touches briefly on possible future opportunities for catalogers to participate in the intellectual community of the university