Sender: Rare book and manuscripts <EXLIBRIS-L@LISTSERV.INDIANA.EDU>
> So here is my wish list
[snip]
> 3. Re-establishment of a separate RLIN type data base
RLIN-style record clustering was introduced into the OCLC union catalog as a
part of the RLG-OCLC merger:
http://www.oclc.org/news/announcements/announcement227.htm
While OCLC's master record concept still drives record creation and
retrieval, the database does currently support so-called "institution
records" (IRs), which are the equivalent of the local records formerly found
as part of RLIN cluster records.
Unfortunately the implementation of IRs in WorldCat is a little awkward (or
so it seems to this cataloger, anyway), and I don't detect much enthusiasm
for their use among OCLC member libraries generally. At this point it's
mostly just the RLIN diehards who seem to be contributing them. Presumably
they're more aware of the benefits of making these records available, and
are thus more willing to cope with the obstacles. (I think there may also be
financial disincentives facing existing OCLC members who might otherwise
wish to become IR contributors.)
Chris
St. Louis, Mo.