Church library computer programs

If you do decide to download records from another library, then determine the standards that library follows. In any event, your local staff will have to do some original cataloging, for example to catalog recordings of local church services. So your local staff must understand basic cataloging rules and must have access to classification schedules call number tables and subject heading lists.

Most church libraries use the Dewey Decimal Classification. It is also available at some religious bookstores, including many Lifeway and Cokesbury stores. A free but incomplete and dated outline is available here. I suggest you stick with real Dewey because it is more complete, it is easier to find staff who have experience with it, and it is more likely to be revised to reflect new needs.

Abridged versions of the Library of Congress classification schedules are available free here in pdf format. However, you will need to purchase or print a paper copy of the unabridged religion section.

The entire printed schedule for all topics is very big -- more than a full shelf of books. Many church libraries use Sears List of Subject Headings which was designed primarily for public libraries. McMichael provides a brief list of subjects especially useful for a church library. It is best used as a supplement to Sears.

The entire Library of Congress Subject Headings list is many volumes in print form. You can search the subject list and even download free authority records. Since the subject lists do not include all possible subdivisions free floating subdivisions , inexperienced volunteer staff may have some difficulty constructing specific headings based on the LC list.

It is often a good idea to browse the subjects that have actually been used in the LC catalog to get ideas. You will probably need to read one of the books on library cataloging before these materials make sense to you.

Also, the detail here is far more than you need for a church library. So don't be intimidated. Church Library Organizer Pro is a complete database management solution for a church library.

Our library software serves the library organization needs of any size churches. It will help with the following library tasks:. How to set up your church library: how to start If your church has a computer network then you can share your church library data with all of your staff or members. You can control who can access, search, add, or modify library records. Catalog searches find 'best guess,' even with misspellings.

Includes the highly regarded One Day Inventory feature. Context-sensitive Help. Read our independent reviews of popular church library software and related products. For the efficient running of your church books and resources e. CD's, tapes, videos, DVD's and effective support for your members, there are a range of applications available to use. Book Master - complete and inclusive package for general libraries, churches or offices. BookMaster Light is ideal for running small libraries.