RetroCat is an essential tool for a library starting the process of converting from a manual system to an automated library system. RetroCat contains two separate database of books that can be used to create cataloging information.  The user simply enters the ISBN number of a book and complete catalog information is retrieved.  The school’s book collection information is stored in a database that can be searched by itself or imported directly into the library automation software program. Information from several schools can be merged to create a district wide database of school assets. The school’s book collection information can be analyzed in terms of Collection maps and Recency.

Significantly reduces conversion time

RetroCat has been shown to significantly reduce the time required to convert a school from manual to automated.  RetroCat can be used on several laptop computers simultaneously during the conversion process. The catalog information from each laptop can be merged into a single catalog database for analysis and for import into the library automation system.

Maintain District Wide Catalog Consistency

Because the same catalog database can be used for all of the schools in a district, complete consistency and quality can be maintained throughout the entire district.  After all of the schools in a district have been converted, it is possible to merge the information into a district wide database and analyze the district library resources with the same analysis tools that RetroCat uses to analyze an  individual schools collection.

Complete Statistical Analysis of the School’s Collection

The school’s collection can be statistically analyzed in terms of Collection Maps and Collection Recency.  This analysis compares a school’s collection against the statistical norms developed by the Los Angeles Unified School District and identifies weaknesses in the current collection.

Print Labels and Catalog Cards Directly from RetroCat

You can print labels and catalog cards directly from RetroCat for the entire collection of a selected subset of the collection.

Maintains Data Entry Statistics

RetroCat maintains a log of the number of books that have been entered each day and the total number of books that have been entered for an entire school.