Social Cataloging in the Libraries

Charlie Terng610:550:02

December 03, 2009

Main Issue:

Traditional classification system(controlled vocabulary)

- vs -

Social tagging

TerminologyControlled vocabulary

An organized collection of words/phrases/names, structured to show the relationships between terms and concepts.

Examples: LCSH, MeSH.Tags

User-generated metadata used to describe the “aboutness” of an object.

Main differencesControlled vocab:

Authoritative.Structured as a

hierarchy.Ordered,

systematic way to search for information.

Tagging:Derived by the

general public.Unstructured.More approachable,

user-friendly way to search.

Issues with controlled vocabulary

Hierarchy structure and specific terminology requires users to be knowledgeable or familiar in the subject area.

Pre-determined listing takes user element out of it.

“Look, but don't touch”. Non-interactive.

What tags can offerCataloging system based on terms used by

“regular people”.More intuitive way of searching.Free-flow path, no hierarchical structure.Current, up-to-date terms.Most importantly, more access points.

Example

ExampleLibrary of Congress Subject Headings

ExampleLibraryThing tags

So why not just use tags?Quality/relevance of tags may vary (i.e.,

“spagging”).Tag clouds, evaluation by librarians are possible

solution.

Issues with specificity (i.e., squirrel topics).Although, LT's new “Tagmash” seems to fix this.

Controlled vocabulary better for total recall.

Which should OPACs use?Not “either or”, but an integration of both.

Their strengths cover each other's weaknesses.Different situations call for different methods.They also work well together.

It's all about increasing access points.

LTFL is on the job

1,512 libraries served.

37 in NJ:LOGIN (20 libraries)

Atlantic County System (10 libraries)Mount Laurel

East Brunswick PublicCamden County College

Highland Park PublicCranbury Public

LibraryThing perksI see dead people's books.TagmashReviews, recommendations, booklists, etc.Will I like this?

Questions, comments, etc.