OCLC is launching a pilot project to test software for cataloging Arabic language materials, including the Arabic vernacular characters. The pilot project allows libraries to search for MARC records, edit records, create and add records not found in WorldCat, and download copies of the MARC records to their automated library systems. The project begins midyear and will last several months. OCLC will evaluate the results and, if they are positive, will provide Arabic cataloging support on an ongoing basis.
The participants will have to use a Windows 2000 client to use the free pilot project software. Cataloging activity will be billed at prevailing rates.
[Contact: OCLC, 6565 Frantz Road., Dublin, OH 43017; telephone 614-764-6000; fax 614-764-6096; Web: www.oclc.org.]
