Problems of retrospective conversion: an analysis of the approaches of selected university libraries in New Zealand and the United Kingdom

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the approaches employed by some university libraries to the conversion of bibliographic records. To achieve this, three areas are investigated. First, the essential components of conversion are examined, with the aid of a model of the conversion process based on the retrieval and creation of machine-readable records using a bibliographic database. Second, the nature of the problems encountered in the integration of these components to form an effective conversion process is investigated. Third, the relationship between these problems and the approach taken by the libraries is examined to discover whether they have control over the factors that influence conversion. The implications of the approaches are assessed for the libraries and the wider library community. The problems experienced by the libraries are identified and divided into three areas: those occurring with the bibliographic records, those with the conversion process, and those arising beyond the conversion process. The comparison of the problems experienced with the approaches to conversion identifies several factors that are important in shaping libraries' projects. These factors include the strategies libraries have used to select and convert their collections and the options available within the method of conversion chosen. The level of technology available within the library, particularly in relation to the existence of local systems, and the standards of records were also found to be relevant. Staffing and project management were highlighted as areas of great significance. The wider implications for the library community of these factors are identified. These include the number of libraries not undertaking large amounts of original conversion and the standards of original conversion. Both these factors have implications for libraries' and networks' databases. The need for a greater level of funding and for co-operation at the network, national and international levels is stressed.