Katalogizáció

Katalogizáció is the process of creating a catalog, which is a systematic list or record of items. This can apply to a wide range of objects, from books and documents to museum artifacts, products in a store, or even digital files. The primary purpose of cataloging is to organize information, making it easier to find, retrieve, and manage the items being cataloged.

The core elements of cataloging involve assigning unique identifiers to each item and describing its key characteristics. This description, often referred to as metadata, can include details such as title, author, date, physical dimensions, material, subject matter, and origin. The specific information included in a catalog record depends on the type of items being cataloged and the intended use of the catalog. For example, a library catalog will focus on bibliographic details, while a product catalog will emphasize features, pricing, and availability.

Effective cataloging relies on established standards and controlled vocabularies to ensure consistency and accuracy. These standards help to standardize the way information is recorded, making it interoperable and searchable across different systems. The goal is to create a comprehensive and reliable record that facilitates efficient access and utilization of the collection or inventory. Cataloging is a fundamental practice in libraries, archives, museums, retail, and information management across various sectors.