Executive Summary: WiCatalog Project (2022–2025)

Overview

WiCatalog is a statewide initiative funded by the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), led by Northern Waters Library Service and 8 partner systems. From 2022 to 2025, the project aimed to improve cataloging practices, enhance patron discovery, and prepare for a possible future statewide library catalog interface.

Key goals

• Standardize cataloging practices across Wisconsin public libraries
• Improve metadata quality for better search and discovery
  
• Support collaboration and shared tools across library systems
  

Major accomplishments

• Established a statewide Bibliographic Standards Committee
  
• Trained nearly 50 staff in cataloging tools and authority control
  
• Created WiCatalog.org, a centralized hub for cataloging standards and resources
  
• Developed shared tools to automate and improve cataloging processes
  
• Supported vendor partnerships to improve authority control and data consistency
  
• Adopted by 11 library systems, demonstrating strong momentum and scalability

Benefits to libraries and patrons

• Better patron experience through consistent, reliable search results
  
• Improved catalog quality across systems, reducing duplication and errors
  
• Operational efficiency with reduced staff time through automation
  
• Cost savings via shared services and streamlined workflows
  
• Enhanced statewide collaboration with long-term infrastructure in place

Looking Forward

WiCatalog has built a sustainable framework for improving cataloging and discovery. Ongoing work will include maintaining best practices, continuing staff training, and supporting the future development of a unified statewide discovery layer.

Funding Acknowledgment

Supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through LSTA, administered by the Wisconsin DPI. Grant coordination and fiscal agent services provided by Northern Waters Library Service.