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Version: 3.1.X

Cooperative Cataloging (Z39.50)

Z39.50 is an international standard client-server protocol that allows searching and retrieving information from remote library databases. ABCD includes a built-in Z39.50 client, which is a powerful tool for copy cataloging. Instead of creating a new bibliographic record from scratch, catalogers can search for the item in a large external catalog (like the Library of Congress), and if a record is found, import it directly into the local database.

This process significantly speeds up the cataloging workflow and improves the quality and standardization of the records.

Configuring Z39.50 Servers​

Before you can use the client, a system administrator must configure the connection details for the remote Z39.50 servers you want to access.

  1. This configuration is managed in a file named z3950.def, located in the par folder of your database (e.g., /var/opt/ABCD/bases/your_db/par/).
  2. For each remote server, you need to provide connection details such as:
    • A descriptive name (e.g., Library of Congress).
    • The server's host address and port.
    • The name of the database to be searched on the remote server.
    • The record syntax used (e.g., MARC21, UNIMARC).

Using the Z39.50 Client in the Cataloging Workflow​

Once the servers are configured, any cataloger can use the client.

  1. From the main menu of the Cataloging module, select the Z39.50 option.
  2. A search form will appear. First, select the desired remote server from the dropdown list of configured targets.
  3. Enter your search terms. Searching by ISBN is often the most effective way to find a specific edition of a book. You can also search by title, author, or other criteria.
  4. Click Search. ABCD will connect to the remote server and display a list of matching records.
  5. You can view the full details of each record.
  6. When you find the correct record, select it and click the Import button. The record's data will be copied and saved as a new record in your local ABCD database, ready for any local modifications (like adding an inventory number).