OCLC Number

OCLC Number

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Subject
Full name
Acronym	OCLC
Identifier
Organisation	OCLC
Introduced
No. issued	1,000,000,000+
No.  of digits
Check digit
Example	123456789

The OCLC Number is a unique identifier assigned to bibliographic records in the WorldCat database, which is maintained by the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC). This number is used by libraries and other institutions to catalog and manage their collections, facilitating the sharing of information and resources across the globe.

History

The OCLC Number was introduced in 1967 when the OCLC was founded. The OCLC was established to improve access to information and reduce costs for libraries by sharing resources. The OCLC Number has since become a standard identifier in the library and information science community.

Structure

OCLC Numbers are numeric and can vary in length. They are assigned sequentially as new records are added to the WorldCat database. The number is unique to each bibliographic record, ensuring that each item can be distinctly identified and accessed.

Usage

OCLC Numbers are used in library catalogs to link to the corresponding record in WorldCat. This allows libraries to easily share cataloging information and access a vast network of bibliographic data. The OCLC Number is also used in interlibrary loan systems, enabling libraries to borrow materials from one another efficiently.

Benefits

• Standardization: Provides a consistent method for identifying bibliographic records.
• Interoperability: Facilitates data sharing between different library systems.
• Resource Sharing: Enhances the ability of libraries to share resources and reduce duplication of effort.

Challenges

• Duplication: Occasionally, multiple OCLC Numbers may be assigned to the same work due to variations in cataloging practices.
• Maintenance: Keeping records up-to-date and accurate requires ongoing effort and collaboration among libraries.

Also see

• WorldCat
• Library catalog
• International Standard Book Number (ISBN)
• Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN)
• Dewey Decimal Classification

References

• "OCLC Number." OCLC. Accessed October 2023. [1]
• "WorldCat: The World's Largest Library Catalog." OCLC. Accessed October 2023. [2]