Resource Description and Access and Ohio Public Libraries

This study examines the current state of knowledge about Resource Description and Access (RDA), the new cataloging standard, among Ohio public library catalogers. Data were collected through an online survey from a representative sample of these catalogers. While a majority of catalogers know about RDA, their working knowledge about it is minimal. There are major differences in this knowledge based on geographic location of Ohio catalogers and educational attainment. The authors propose further training and education opportunities for Ohio catalogers. Further similar research is needed to determine if this lack of knowledge of the new descriptive standard among public library catalogers is a national challenge.