AUTOMATION
The power and speed of automated library catalogs have been proven in the largest libraries of the world in recent years. In very small libraries the power of keyword searching of cataloging records can greatly increase the likelihood of finding material on a particular topic. Additional benefits of creating a database of machine-readable cataloging records are the printing of spine labels and book cards from a single data entry. In a time when fewer volunteers are having more demands placed on their time, it is imperative that the Church Library take advantage of all the good features of automation possible.
In 1997, Second Baptist Church Library began using the Master Library System software from Book Systems, Inc., to enter cataloging records of all new additions to the collection. During 1999 we acquired a Windows-based networked version of the software, called Concourse, to install on the Church Library's two microcomputers. When all library holdings are bar-coded and entered into the database, it will allow Second's Church Library to have a completely online catalog with total keyword searching and automated circulation.
Because it is already on the church network, church staff members can search the library's catalog from their own workstations at any time. A web-based version of the catalog could also be mounted on the website for church members to search from distant locations.
At present only about 35 percent of the records for material in the Church Library collection have been converted into machine-readable form. Capable volunteers are making a systematic effort to convert the remaining cataloging records and make the collection much more fully assessible to its users. If you have good keyboarding skills, are an accurate typist, enjoy books, and have a few hours of spare time each month, please consider becoming a volunteer on this project. We look forward to introducing all church members, including the very young, to searching the online catalog. Stop by for your very own private training session!
