A Common Ground: Communication and Alliance between Cataloguer and Curator for Improved Access to Rare Books and Special Collections

Abstract

Rare book catalogers and special collections curators can benefit greatly from cooperating on matters concerning cataloging policy and practice. This alliance is necessary for providing full access to special collections in a rapidly changing library environment. The authors examine rare book cataloging from the perspectives of cataloger and curator; discuss the areas where a cataloger–curator alliance can affect cataloging, as well as relevant factors over which the two have little control; and promote a concept of customized cataloging for special collections materials.