The card catalog as a physical object is outdated and unnecessary. The online catalog is much more efficient and convenient, it does not need constant, laborious update like that of the physical card catalog. The physical card catalog takes up too much space in the library that can be devoted to other things such as books or study space. The physical card catalog is heavy and chunky; its a dust magnet with plenty of drawers to act as convenient gum repositories for teenage patrons. If a card drawer is not completely full, the space behind the cards collects dust bunnies and lint, along with the occasional paper hole punched from a hole punch. Adding new space for new books to be cataloged becomes tedious, especially when a drawer is full and it's at the beginning of the alphabet.
What can be said in defense of the physical card catalog? The card catalog as a physical object can be quite esthetically pleasing. It is a piece of furniture that can be admired for its simple lines and elegant drawer pulls. The drawers themselves are versatile and can be used for numerous household items for storage or display. For its original purpose, the card catalog kept each bibliographic card in order, where the patron and library staff could find vital information on the library's holdings. It did its job well. The physical card catalog is an important part of the advancement and organization of libraries and it in turn holds partial responsibility for allowing the public availability of literature.
Stereotypes surrounding the library and card catalog:
The librarian has become stereotyped in popular culture with a bun in her hair and reading glasses hanging from her neck. She wears conservative clothing which reflects her uptight nature. She constantly has her index finger at her pursed lips, expressing her wish for people to "Shush!" The atmosphere in a library is quiet, and collegiate. People are absorbing knowledge, they need to concentrate, no talking please. Most libraries are cold and sterile, no need for the comforts of home because if the patrons get too relaxed, they might fall asleep. Libraries are traditionally conservative. The card catalog is seen as antiquated and outdated.
The stereotype of the librarian can not be applied to every female librarian. Libraries are becoming more interactive and family oriented institutions. As funding for libraries becomes more popular through tax dollars, the public has more influence on the programming delivered at the local library. The stereotype of the card catalog is for the most part accurate as it has been replaced by the online catalog. Though the stereotype is accurate is harshly unsentimental.
Concrete features of the card catalog:
The card catalog has rounded edges. Card catalogs are heavy and hold an unthinkable number of cards or other objects like slides. It's empty drawers are dark and cavernous. Most card catalogs are honey coloured, yet take on a patina over the years of use. The catalog collects history by recording the occasional nick or ding to it's drawers or browsing shelf. Sometimes the laminate layer of wood on the cabinet becomes separated from the underlying layer revealing another surface. The drawer pulls are hard metal, usually brass or nickel and shaped like elephant noses.
Heather,
ReplyDeleteI love that picture of the arm coming out of the card catalog drawer and pulling out another shelf/drawer. It is very creative and inviting even. The arm kind of lures you in and directs your attention to the card catalog, kind of saying that these simple wooden drawers and nooks hold so much information and potential for people who are in search of something. Which is basically what the card catalog is meant for to begin with; it organizes and contains information for people who are in search of answers in the form of books.