The introduction of RDA (Resource Description and Access), the new cataloguing standard, has meant one of the biggest changes in cataloguing practice in recent years. RDA is intended to provide increased access to resources in ways which were difficult with previous standards such as AACR2. Older standards primarily dealt with print materials but the increase in digital output meant that things needed to change.

RDA is based on the FRBR (Fundamental Requirements for Bibliographic Records) model. This is a conceptual model which describes relationships between different entities such as the author, editor or subject of the item in hand.

If all of this terminology leaves you scratching your head then don’t worry, you’re not alone!  Luckily, the Library Science Collection includes a variety of resources on RDA. We have works on the background of FRBR, the practical implementation of RDA and works on cataloguing specific types of resource. As RDA becomes more established we will be adding to the collection, with several exciting new titles to look forward to. To keep on top of the latest additions why not follow our  Pinterest board dedicated to RDA?

If you’re looking for more specific examples of RDA, remember that Cambridge University Library has shared its training material online via the CambridgeRDA blog.

Bibliography of resources on RDA

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