This handbook provides practical and technical background on the new cataloging standard, Resource Description and Access (RDA), a set of guidelines that provide instructions for descriptive cataloging. Techniques are illustrated with b&w screen shots throughout. The book begins with material on the rationale for a new cataloging code and looks at the differences between AACR2 and the new standard. The handbook then presents implementation strategies, delving into functional requirements for bibliographic records and providing details on how to identify manifestations and items, and works and their creators. There is also a section on how to browse and search the RDA Toolkit, which is an online product that allows users to interact with a collection of documents and resources related to cataloging. The handbook closes with detailed checklists for copy catalogers, original catalogers, and authority control. The book reflects the status of RDA as of January 2012. El-Sherbini is affiliated with The Ohio State University Libraries. ALA Editions is an imprint of the American Library Association. Annotation 2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
