820
W72 49408 Windham]

[Illustration: Shelf-list card. (Reduced; actual size, 5 x 12-1/2
cm.)

090 Slater
S11 Book collecting
3528]




CHAPTER XXV

Cataloging books


After the books are accessioned, classified, author-numbered or
book-marked, and shelf-listed, they should be cataloged. A catalog
is a labor-saving device in library work. From it both reader and
attendant can ascertain whether the library has a certain book. By
consulting the catalog for the class-number, the book may be looked
for in its proper place, thus often saving hunting through the shelves
in several classes.

A printed list or catalog of the library is one of the first things
that will be asked for by the public. It is useful especially for
those who cannot well visit the library. But it is very expensive; it
is out of date as soon as issued; it cannot often be sold; it requires