Weinheimer Jim wrote:
>
> Relating this back to cataloging and libraries, there are
> similar suggestions, e.g. that the original purpose of OCLC to
> allow libraries to exchange cataloging information has become
> completely obsolete in this new environment. In fact, an insistence
> on these outmoded processes is holding the entire field of
> librarianship back and if are field is to survive, other structures
> must be found and built.
What has also become obsolete is copyright on a standards document.
Like, for instance, the text of a cataloging code of rules.
The text of laws, like the US Code:
http://www.house.gov/house/laws.shtml
are not copyrighted. These texts are open for anyone to read, and
anyone can copy them and include them in publications, like
commentaries, that provide added value but do not of course change the
text of the law itself.
This is what one should expect, in fact demand, for the text of
cataloging rules. For today, we habe better ways of creating added
value than writing introductory textbooks or commentaries on paper.
But to do so, we need the text. No matter how fabulous a device
RDA-online may become, it is not acceptable if the structured rule text
file as such and in its entirety is kept under lock and key and
the de-facto property of a commercial entity turning it into a
monopolist product. This isn't said for the first time here, but
I'm not aware of any statement from those responsible in the matter.
Correct me if I have overlooked something.
B.Eversberg
Received on Mon Apr 12 2010 - 04:44:51 EDT