Descriptive Impressions of Entry-Level Cataloger Positions as Reflected in American Libraries, AutoCAT, and the Colorado State Library Jobline, 2000-2003

Library school students and employers articulate expectations for entry-level cataloger positions including understandings and familiarities with a theoretical basis for organization (cataloging, classification, authority control), technical skills (bibliographic utilities, tools), and non-library specific competencies. Therefore, entry-level catalog librarian position announcements provide insight into shifting requirements regarding graduate education, expertise, and preferred preparations for these positions. This empirical research study explores 150 entry-level cataloger position announcements published during a three-year period in order to determine the common aspects of employers’ expectations. A rigorous content analysis methodology enabled the researcher to identify employers’ expectations and requirements among types of libraries. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: Website: © 2005 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]