Correct spelling for the English word "cataloguer" is [kˈatɐlˌɒɡə], [kˈatɐlˌɒɡə], [k_ˈa_t_ɐ_l_ˌɒ_ɡ_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
A cataloguer is a professional responsible for creating and maintaining organized and comprehensive records of items in a collection, library, or database. They play a crucial role in efficiently managing and providing easy access to these items for users.
In libraries, cataloguers work closely with librarians to classify, describe, and assign metadata to books, journals, media, and other resources. They utilize established cataloging standards, such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) format, and subject classification systems like Dewey Decimal Classification or Library of Congress Classification. By accurately and consistently inputting data, cataloguers assist users in locating materials through searching by author, title, subject, or other relevant information.
For museums, galleries, and archives, cataloguers ensure that artifacts, artworks, or historical documents are properly documented, tagged, and recorded in the collection management system. They create detailed descriptions, enter acquisition data, and attach any relevant multimedia or digital representations to enhance accessibility.
Beyond libraries and cultural institutions, cataloguers can also be found in e-commerce companies, ensuring accurate and organized product listings. They categorize merchandise, input product information, and manage inventory databases.
Overall, a cataloguer serves as an information specialist, responsible for building and maintaining a well-organized system that allows easy discovery and retrieval of resources, whether physical or digital, for users and researchers. They possess strong attention to detail, knowledge of cataloging standards, and proficiency in information management.
The word "cataloguer" is derived from the French word "catalogueur", which itself comes from the older French term "catalogue". The French word traces its roots back to the Latin word "catalogus", meaning a list or registry. In turn, "catalogus" is believed to have been borrowed from the Greek word "katalogos", which combines "kata" (meaning "down" or "thoroughly") and "legein" (meaning "to pick" or "to choose"). Therefore, the etymology of "cataloguer" ultimately suggests the act of creating a comprehensive list or inventory.