Russian Corporate and Personal Name Headings on OCLC and RLIN: A Comparison Study

Abstract

It is commonly believed that the quality of original cataloging on OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) and RLIN (Research Libraries Information Network) significantly differs. Past stereotypes reflected the fact that OCLC traditionally emphasized increasing the size of the database, while RLIN ascribed top priority to cataloging quality. The literature is mixed regarding whether significant differences do exist. Focusing on Russian name headings, this project investigates whether the quality of member-contributed cataloging in this Slavic area does significantly differ on OCLC and RLIN. The study draws member-contributed records containing Russian name headings from both the OCLC and RLIN databases and compares the name headings with respect to correct transliteration, punctuation, and tagging, as well as conformance to AACR2 (Anglo American Cataloging Rules 2) and Library of Congress rule interpretations. (Contains 12 references.) (Author/JLB)