Which of the following is the Limitation of Printed Book Form of Library Catalogue

The Correct answer is Time-consuming to prepare, leading to outdated catalogues by the time they are published.

Key Points

• Printed Book Form of Library Catalogue:
  • The printed book form of a library catalogue was a common format in the 19th century, especially in major libraries like the British Museum Library (now British Library) and the Library of Congress.
  • These catalogues adhered to standard cataloguing rules and included cross-references and multiple entries.
  • To keep the catalogue up-to-date, supplements were regularly issued.
• Advantages:
  • Can be printed in multiple copies, priced, and sold.
  • Users can consult the catalogue at home or work without needing to visit the library.
  • Easier to use with many entries on a single page.
  • Compact, portable, and easy to handle.
  • Can be organized by subject, catering to different user groups.
• Limitations:
  • High production cost.
  • Time-consuming to prepare, leading to outdated catalogues by the time they are published.
  • Acquisitions during the preparation period may be missed, resulting in numerous supplements that are cumbersome to consult.
  • Doesn't provide a real-time reflection of the library's complete collection.
  • Inflexible; cannot easily add new books or remove lost ones.
  • Requires qualified staff familiar with cataloguing and printing.