Development and Challenges in Old Manuscripts Cataloging: The Experience of the National Library of Portugal

摘要

This is an account of the experience of the National Library of Portugal (NLP) in the adaptation of cataloging rules and the development of the local practice in old manuscript cataloging. The evolution of the work upon which current policies and practice are based is presented. Also, the process and results of adapting UNIMARC (UNIversal MARC) to manuscripts is explained, showing how the whole practice of automated cataloging of manuscripts at the NLP has been an innovative and pioneering experience.