The library has been created by actual necessities in modern civilization. It is now a necessary unit in the social fabric. Culture must transcend the individual for it is essentially a social cumulation of experience whereby the men of each generation possess potentially at least, all that their predecessors have ever learned. Books are one social mechanism for preserving the racial memory and the library one social apparatus for transferring this to the consciousness of living individuals. Any understanding of society must include an explanation of this social element and of its function in communal life. Thus librarianship takes its place among the phenomena to be discussed in any system of social science.

The Encyclopedia of Library and Information Sciences, comprising of seven volumes, now in its fourth edition, compiles the contributions of major researchers and practitioners and explores the cultural institutions of more than 30 countries. This major reference presents over 550 entries extensively reviewed for accuracy in seven print volumes or online. The new fourth edition, which includes 55 new entires and 60 revised entries, continues to reflect the growing convergence among the disciplines that influence information and the cultural record, with coverage of the latest topics as well as classic articles of historical and theoretical importance.

"The Encyclopedia of Library and Information Science provides an outstanding resource in 33 published volumes with 2 helpful indexes. This thorough reference set--written by 1300 eminent, international experts--offers librarians, information/computer scientists, bibliographers, documentalists, systems analysts, and students, convenient access to the techniques and tools of both library and information science. Impeccably researched, cross referenced, alphabetized by subject, and generously illustrated, the Encyclopedia of Library and Information Science integrates the essential theoretical and practical information accumulating in this rapidly growing field."

Library science refers to the application of the perspectives, practices and tools of areas such as management, education, information technology to libraries, etc. It includes the collection, organization, preservation and dissemination of information resources. Cataloging in library science refers to the process of creating metadata that represents information resources such as books, moving images, sound recordings, etc. It provides information like titles, creator names and subject terms that describe the resources by creating the bibliographic records. There are two types of cataloging, namely, descriptive cataloging and subject cataloging. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to library science and cataloging. Different approaches, evaluations, and methodologies on this field have been included in it. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

This comprehensive book prepares readers for a changing profession in the library and information field, presenting a holistic approach that examines theories and models and utilizes creative problem-solving strategies. In this rapidly changing, knowledge-based society, library and information professionals require a broad understanding of the profession. Introduction to the Library and Information Professions, Second Edition presents a toolbox of models that enable this essential understanding for undergraduate and graduate students in library and information science programs as well as practicing professionals seeking continuing education. The materials in this second edition reflect the latest trends in the library and information profession, including services and issues that stem from new advances in technology. The authors present "big picture" information that will allow readers to better plan and implement client-entered services, discussing topics such as the life cycle of information, the role of library and information professionals as change agents, models of information transfer, the national information infrastructure, and important trends and developments. The contents provide readers with clear guidance and a carefully explained rationale for lifelong careers as information professionals.