Every librarian should be familiar with the following key terminologies:
1. Cataloging: The process of organizing, describing and classifying library materials.
2. Classification: The system used to arrange library materials into categories based on subject or genre.
3. Metadata: Data that describes other data, such as the title, author, and subject of a book.
4. MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging): A standard format for the cataloging of library materials.
5. Authority control: The process of creating and maintaining consistent and accurate names, subjects, and headings in a library’s catalog.
6. OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog): A computerized catalog that allows patrons to search the library’s collection from a remote location.
7. Circulation: The lending of library materials to patrons and the tracking of those materials.
8. Reference services: Assistance provided by librarians to patrons in finding information.
9. Interlibrary loan: The lending of materials between libraries.
10. Bibliometrics: The study of quantifying and analyzing published literature, including the number of publications, authors, and citations.
11. Collection development: The process of selecting, acquiring, and maintaining library materials to meet the needs and interests of the library’s patrons.
12. Digitization: The process of converting analog materials, such as books and photographs, into digital formats.
13. E-resources: Electronic resources, such as e-books, databases, and digital journals, available through a library.
14. Information literacy: The ability to locate, evaluate, and effectively use information from various sources.
15. Copyright: Legal protection for creators of original works, including literary, artistic, and musical works.
16. Intellectual property: Legal protection for creations of the mind, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
17. Preservation: The protection and care of library materials to ensure their long-term accessibility.
18. Accessibility: Making library materials and services available to all patrons, including those with disabilities.
19. Reader’s advisory: Assistance provided by librarians to patrons in selecting books and other materials to read.
20. Outreach: Efforts made by librarians to promote the library and its services to the community.