This session will explore the nuanced challenges and practical strategies involved in cataloging special collections and rare materials. A panel of cataloging and metadata librarians from academic, firm and government libraries will share their insights on cataloging various types of physical objects including rare books, local pamphlets, and historical documents. Attendees will hear about different approaches to describing, classifying, and storing these items, with discussions on the use of repositories, library discovery systems, and customized classification schemes. The program aims to provide a starting point for libraries with limited resources, offering practical takeaways to enhance their own cataloging practices.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

New law librarians, managers, librarians in changing roles, technical services and reference librarians. Applicable to all library types that have local, rare, or special materials/collections.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will identify key challenges in cataloging special collections and rare materials.
2. Participants will explore different techniques and tools used for describing and classifying physical objects in collections. 
3. Participants will recognize best practices and actionable steps for improving cataloguing processes in their libraries.

SPEAKERS:

• Kate Peck, UC Berkeley Law Library, California
• Jessie Tam, Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, Maryland

COORDINATOR:

• Keelan Weber, Lilian Goldman Law Library, Yale Law School

MODERATOR/COORDINATOR:

• Jennifer Mart-Rice, University of Alabama School of Law

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Information Management

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.