ARL Cataloger Librarian Roles and Responsibilities Now and In the Future

This article details the results of a 2011 study of cataloger librarians’ changing roles and responsibilities at academic Association of Research Libraries. The study participants, cataloging department heads, report that cataloger librarian roles are expanding to include cataloging more electronic resources and local hidden collections in addition to print materials. They are also creating non-MARC metadata. The increased usage of vendor products and services is also affecting the roles of cataloger librarians at some institutions. The article explores what skills cataloger librarians will need in the future and how libraries are providing training for that future.     

Discussion Paper--Creative Partnerships: Public and voluntary services working together

Recent Government initiatives (National Healthy School Standard; Department for Education and Employment, 1999) and Guidance (Promoting Children's Mental Health within Early Years and School Settings; Department for Education and Employment, 2001) are placing increased expectations on schools to promote the emotional well-being of children. However, teachers are unlikely through initial training to have the skills and knowledge required to undertake these responsibilities unassisted. Moreover, the external support available to schools through public sector agencies is insufficiently resourced to meet a significant and sustained rise in demand. Through its Compact (Home Office, 1998), the previous Government acknowledged the contribution currently made to society by the voluntary sector and its potential to provide further support for those in need. Charities supporting children's social/emotional development and mental health may have much to offer. Projects run by the voluntary sector are already supporting schools across the country, and rapid growth is underway. However, schools need help in procuring, monitoring and evaluating this support to assure quality standards and pupil safety. Both schools and Local Education Authorities (LEAs) have a duty of care. Educational psychologists, trained in child development, research and evaluation, and with access to regulatory processes such as Children's Services Planning and Best Value, should be well-placed to assist and guide their LEA, schools and voluntary sector partners.