On the "MARC" In A Modern Library Setting

Creating a standard by which all libaries organized their collections, large or small was the specific intent behind the implementation of the MARC standard.  Of course we have the inclination to be comeptitive with one another when developing our own specific libraries collections, and this is the driving force behind local, national and global expansion in the holdings of individual libraries.  However, this expansion is should be marked with a distinct understanding that although we have our own ambitions, the primary objective of creating a an expansive collection to serivce the needs and requests of our patrons.  In this regard, using MARC record allows those searching for a specific piecce of material whether it be print or digital to encounter a distinctly uniform organizational technique across many different libraries.  It is better that we understand each others collections under one standard such as MARC, and appreciate its ability to allow individual libraries to acquire catalogue data that is uniform and streamlined.  Opening up lines of communication is an ever changing, ever present topic of discussion when library automation systems not only organize collections but can allow a simple request to borrow through Inter-Library Loan.  I know from my own experiences that this is an invaluable tool if the library you most frequently visit does no have a resource.  The importance for having a uniform language to communicate from one library to the next is seen when this request is required.


Furthermore, the distinct features of library automation systems such as Mandarin Library Automation allow the application of the MARC record to easily organize and catalogue library materials. 

http://www.mlasolutions.com/products/m3-cataloging.php

Taking a quick look at Mandarin M3 will show that it supports MARC 21 Format and holds it as standard for all record types digital or print.  There are in fact a variety of MARC record compatible automation packages, and they should be evaluated based on need, location, customer and budget.  MARC standard also offers the flexibility of modern technology which is employed by these automation systems.  Peripheral components such as barcode scanners, computer databases and touch screen kiosks depending on library use the MARC record as their primary form of record keeping and retrieval.

Finally, it is important to also incorporate tools such as MARC record convertors in your LMC to keep up with the advancing and exponential growth of digital resources.  http://amazon.libcat.org/cgi-bin/imdb2marc.pl?kw=kings+speech allows users to create and include MARC records of materials such as movies into their own collection if their automation system package does not allow this.  Make certain you understand the terms and conditions of your agreement with an automation system so that optimal use of MARC is integrated into your LMC.