Maximizing the Discovery of Data Sets in the Yale University Library Catalog

In response to the desire to include data set holdings in the Yale University Library (YUL) catalog, the Dataset Cataloging Task Force was formed in spring 2019 to assess the existing cataloging practices and current integrated library system environment. This paper describes the process of developing cataloging guidelines in the absence of authoritative resources while implementing best practices for cataloging data sets with the goal of optimizing the discoverability and accessibility of data sets in the online library catalog. The authors recommend the establishment of a national group to discuss, establish, and document national guidelines for cataloging data sets so that these increasingly important resources are treated in a consistent manner in institutional, consortial, and global catalogs.