Information Tools and Next Generation Catalogs

The most widely-known information tool within the library is the library catalog. Traditional catalogs include books, CDs, DVDs, newspapers, magazines, microfilms, musical scores, etc. Next generation catalogs offer a social aspect within these catalogs. Patrons can tag, rate, and review materials, and is a wonderful attempt at merging older information tools with new information tools.

                   

Nowadays, if people have questions, they simply "Google" it. How can catalogs compete with the instant nature of Google? If someone has a question, Google can offer many resources within seconds, and traditional catalogs have tended to take time and expertise to use. However, with recent developments to catalogs mentioned above, usability is increasing, and libraries are creating search tools that mimic everyday tools used (tagging, bookmarking, reviewing, quick searches, etc.) It only makes sense for libraries to evolve and include these types of developments, as this is the future of information retrieval and dissemination.

Relevant readings:

• Emanuel, Jenny. “Next Generation Catalogs: What Do They Do and Why Should We Care?”  Reference & User Services Quarterly 49.2 (2009): 117-120.
• Yang, Sharon Q. and Kurt Wagner. “Evaluating and Comparing Discovery Tools: How Close Are We Towards Next Generation Catalog?”  Library Hi Tech 28.4 (2010): 690-709.