Looking for help cataloging materials in world languages? There are two statewide programs that can help. Both programs are supported by a grant from the Illinois State Library and are free to Illinois library system members.

The Cataloging Maintenance Center (CMC) is operated by Illinois Heartland Library System and provides a number of cataloging services: cataloging training, database cleanup, oral transcriptions, special collections consulting, and bibliographic services. Bib services include original and copy cataloging for print and electronic materials by Illinois authors and illustrators, local histories, genealogies, realia, one-of-a-kind items, and sub-collections pertaining to specific fields or areas of study (special collections) as defined by the library—such as materials in world languages.

The World Language Cataloging Services Program is operated by Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS) and provides original and copy cataloging for materials in world languages that are considered part of the library’s regular collection, as opposed to being a special collection. Each library makes that determination.

Both programs are available to all system members at no cost to help with cataloging materials in world languages and other needs. To learn more about how either program can help your library, contact the CMC at 618-467-8649 or pthomas@illinoisheartland.org or the World Language Cataloging Services Program at 630.734.5128 or nincy.george@railslibraries.info.