MARC
MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) is a standard way of organizing and sharing information about books, journals, and other library materials. Think of it as a universal language that libraries use to describe their collections so that other libraries and systems can understand it. It's similar to how restaurants use standard menu formats that everyone can understand. When you see MARC mentioned in job descriptions, it usually means the role involves working with library catalogs, organizing information, or managing library systems.
Examples in Resumes
Cataloged over 1,000 new acquisitions using MARC standards
Trained staff members in MARC21 data entry and maintenance
Converted legacy catalog records to MARC format using automated tools
Typical job title: "Cataloging Librarians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Cataloging Librarians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a large-scale catalog migration project from one system to another?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in project planning, understanding of different library systems, and ability to maintain data integrity during transitions. They should mention staff training and quality control measures.
Q: How do you stay current with changes in cataloging standards and practices?
Expected Answer: Strong candidates should mention professional development activities, participation in professional organizations, and experience implementing updates to cataloging standards across departments.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What experience do you have with authority control and maintaining consistent headings?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to maintain consistent naming and subject headings across a catalog, and experience with authority control tools.
Q: How do you handle non-standard materials in cataloging?
Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to cataloging unusual items, showing flexibility in applying standards while maintaining consistency.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what MARC fields and subfields are?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basically that MARC records are divided into fields for different types of information (like title, author, subject) and subfields for more specific details.
Q: What experience do you have with copy cataloging?
Expected Answer: Should understand the basic process of using existing catalog records and making necessary modifications for local use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic MARC record creation and editing
- Copy cataloging
- Understanding of basic cataloging rules
- Familiarity with library software
Mid (2-5 years)
- Original cataloging
- Authority control management
- Special collections cataloging
- Training other staff members
Senior (5+ years)
- Catalog management and maintenance
- Project management
- Policy development
- Systems migration and integration
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic cataloging principles
- Unfamiliarity with library management systems
- Poor attention to detail
- No understanding of metadata standards
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
How Recruitment Marketing Automation Is Reshaping Hiring Forever
Global Compliance Checks: The Hidden Puzzle Pieces of Background Screening Revealed
