Authority Control
Authority Control is a method used by librarians and information professionals to keep information organized and consistent. Think of it like a master list that ensures everyone uses the same terms for the same things. For example, making sure "Mark Twain" and "Samuel Clemens" are linked as the same person, or that "NYC" and "New York City" are treated as identical. This helps people find information more easily and keeps databases organized. It's similar to how a company might have a standard way of naming their products or organizing customer information.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Authority Control standards for a university library catalog of over 1 million records
Implemented Authority Control processes for digital collections, improving search accuracy by 40%
Led Authority Control and metadata cleanup projects for merger of two library systems
Typical job title: "Metadata Librarians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Metadata Librarians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage an authority control project when merging two large library systems?
Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss planning steps like assessing current systems, identifying conflicts, creating standardization rules, and managing the transition while maintaining service. They should mention staff training and quality control measures.
Q: How do you stay current with changing authority control standards and technologies?
Expected Answer: Look for answers about professional development, conference attendance, participation in professional organizations, and experience implementing new standards or systems as they emerge.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to maintain consistency in authority records?
Expected Answer: Should describe regular review processes, use of standard tools and databases, and procedures for updating records when new information becomes available.
Q: How do you handle authority control for names in multiple languages?
Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to managing different versions of names, cross-referencing systems, and following international standards for multiple language entries.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is authority control and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a system for maintaining consistent terms and names in a database or catalog, making information easier to find and manage.
Q: What tools have you used for authority control work?
Expected Answer: Should mention common library systems and databases used for authority control, showing basic familiarity with standard tools in the field.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic cataloging principles
- Understanding of standard naming conventions
- Familiarity with library software
- Basic metadata creation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Managing authority records
- Quality control procedures
- Training others in basic procedures
- Project coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- System-wide authority control management
- Policy development
- Training program development
- Large-scale project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic cataloging principles
- Unfamiliarity with standard metadata formats
- Poor attention to detail
- No experience with library management systems
Related Terms
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