Cataloging is an important part of using SPARK. To ensure records in the system are the absolute best possible, SPARK requires all staff who do cataloging to take trainings on the system.

Once the appropriate level of training is completed, SPARK will automatically add the permissions to an employees’ account. Cataloging cannot be done by anyone who does not have the appropriate level of permission. 

Click the button below to visit SPARK’s Cataloging Training page, which includes links to the training videos, powerpoints, and PDF files of the training information.

Local Cataloging

Local cataloging is the process of finding a pre-made record and adding your library’s holding to the collection. This is the most common method of cataloging and will cover most published books, DVDs, etc.

Local Catalogers and Library Directors must Register and Watch the Cataloging 1 video. 

Copy Cataloging

Copy Cataloging is used when a record does not already exist in SPARK. Records are found in other databases and imported into SPARK, then an item holding is added by the library.

Copy Catalogers and Library Directors must Register and Watching the Cataloging 2 video and complete a test. 

Original Cataloging

Original Cataloging involves creating a MARC record in SPARK from scratch. These permissions are not needed by library directors or staff.

Processing Original Items

If a library needs original cataloging done for an item, it can be sent to Cambria County Library’s Tech Processing department for handling.

• The record will be created by the CCL Technical Processing Superivsor
• The item will be returned to the library
• The library has approximately 1 week to create their Item Holding in SPARK. If an item is not attached to the record it may automatically be deleted from the system