The most elemental identifier of a book is the international standard book number (ISBN). It allows publishers, booksellers, and libraries to label works in a consistent way and to distinguish not only among different titles but also among different versions of the same title, such as newer editions, various bindings, audio products, and…

Reviews trends in catalog and technical service departments in response to information needs of library patrons, administrations of catalog and technical services departments, and professional standards that no longer meet patron needs. Discusses patron search patterns; the role of catalogers; and results of sharing cataloging records, downsizing,…