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1.1. The Item Cataloging Workflow

Last Updated 01/09/2026

What is Item Cataloging?

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When cataloging items in NC Cardinal's shared catalog, first find a matching bibliographic record, then add your holdings and add local holding information by editing the Item Attributes.

Words to Know

Holdings: The locally owned and managed Volumes (Call Numbers) and Items (individual Copies) attached to title records.

Item Attributes: Local holding metadata that includes information about where an item is located in the physical library. Further details impacts how the item circulates and where and how it may be targeted to fulfill hold requests.

In NC Cardinal, the process of item cataloging involves finding a bibliographic record that matches the item you wish to catalog and attaching your item to that record.  

Item Cataloging Process

1. Search the NC Cardinal shared catalog for a record that matches the item you are adding to your library. 
2. Verify that the record you select is a match. 
3. Add your holdings.
4. Edit Item Attributes to set how the item will function in the catalog. 
5. Complete any physical processing.
6. Once the item is ready to be made available to patrons, scan it in the Checkin screen.

Note: Always use the "Re-Target Local Holds" Checkin Modifier when checking in newly cataloged items to ensure they are considered for any active hold requests.