The special problems of cataloguing Melitensia

Abstract

Catalogues, being lists of library materials contained in a collection, a library, or a group of libraries, arranged according to some definite plan, depend on systematic planning and maintenance. Cataloguing of Melitensia presents its own severe problems. Books and other items published in Malta may be seen to fall into three categories defined according to bibliographical skills: the easy, the challenging, and the impossible. As much time and effort are required to maintain Authority Listing of Maltese names as for cataloguing the original works. The computerisation of cataloguing has aided the process but has also created new problems, some of which still require a solution. As interest in Malta increases abroad, more and more individuals, organisations, and libraries will need access to Maltese materials and bibliographical information.