AI in cataloguing: What OCLC’s latest innovation means for South African libraries
AI in Library Cataloguing: OCLC Innovation for South Africa
The global cataloguing landscape is evolving. OCLC has introduced AI-powered enhancements to WorldShare Record Manager and Connexion to support faster, more consistent classification and subject assignment. These developments represent a further step in the responsible integration of artificial intelligence into core library workflows — enhancing accuracy and efficiency while ensuring cataloguers retain full control.
The new functionality within WorldShare Record Manager provides AI-generated suggestions for Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) numbers, Library of Congress Classification (LCC) numbers and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH). Drawing on data from millions of bibliographic records in WorldCat, the system analyses patterns to recommend relevant classifications and subject terms during record creation.
The human expertise factor: AI suggests; cataloguers decide
Cataloguers remain firmly in charge. Suggestions can be accepted, refined or ignored, and libraries can customise which recommendations are displayed. Over time, these interactions help improve the system’s performance. Pilot libraries have reported measurable time savings per title, particularly for more complex records, demonstrating how even incremental efficiencies can make a meaningful difference in busy technical services environments.
At a time when many libraries are managing growing collections alongside staffing constraints, such efficiencies are significant. Cataloguing has always required careful subject analysis and adherence to international standards. AI-assisted workflows help reduce repetitive elements of the process, allowing cataloguers to focus their expertise where it adds the greatest value: interpreting nuanced content, ensuring contextual accuracy, and maintaining quality control.
Global innovation, local relevance
For South African libraries, these developments are particularly relevant. Institutions across the country are balancing limited resources with increasing expectations around discoverability and metadata quality. Efficient, standards-compliant cataloguing remains fundamental to enabling research, learning and access.
Libraries using SabiCat, Sabinet’s cataloguing service, access WorldShare Record Manager and therefore benefit from ongoing enhancements introduced by OCLC. Longstanding SabiCat clients may continue to use Connexion, while new implementations are aligned with Record Manager as the strategic forward platform. This ensures that South African institutions remain connected to global cataloguing innovation while receiving local training, support and contextual guidance.
While AI can accelerate certain aspects of metadata creation, context remains critical. South African collections often include regionally published materials, multilingual content and specialised subject areas that require nuanced interpretation.
“AI can accelerate aspects of metadata creation, but it cannot replace the contextual understanding that skilled cataloguers bring to the process,” says [Name], [Title] at Sabinet. “Through SabiCat, we ensure that South African libraries benefit from global platform enhancements while maintaining the quality, consistency and professional judgement that underpin effective discovery.”
Through SabiCat, Sabinet supports libraries with access to international cataloguing platforms, training aligned to current standards, guidance on best practice, and responsive local support. As AI capabilities evolve, having a trusted partner becomes even more important. Libraries need assurance that new tools are implemented effectively. The staff are confident in using enhanced functionality. And that metadata quality remains central.
The integration of AI into cataloguing reflects a broader shift in the library sector: collaboration between technology and professional expertise. For South African libraries, the opportunity lies in harnessing these innovations thoughtfully and improving efficiency without compromising standards.
As cataloguing continues to evolve, the goal remains constant: accurate, consistent metadata that enhances discovery and supports research. AI may refine the tools, but it is the expertise of cataloguers that ultimately ensures quality. In this next phase of transformation, the partnership between global platforms and local expertise will be key.
If your library is exploring how to strengthen cataloguing efficiency while maintaining standards, speak to the Sabinet team about SabiCat and its access to WorldShare Record Manager.
Illustrative AI-generated image