Retrospective conversion is the process by which libraries convert a shelflist (such as a card catalog) to a searchable, computerized database. This database can then be used as the backbone of an automation system.
The process of converting information from a traditional card catalog to an electronic format.
Refers to the changing of old bibliographic records (usually in the form of catalogue cards) into a machine-readable format. In the conversion, a record for each item held by the library must be entered into a computer database. There are a number of options - keying the information into the database directly using library staff or using an outside source, or using bibliographic records already in a machine-readable form, choosing the records you have and copying the records to your own database.
Conversion of the print catalog of records for the media center’s collection to an electronic database in MARC (machine-readable) format.
The process of converting bibliographic information from card or book records to computerized records for materials already held in collections before computer cataloging began. Also known as Retrocon, Recon, Retro, etc.
Conversion of information from traditional card catalog cards to an electronic format. "Recon" is most often undertaken in preparing for installation of a local automated system or for a cooperative resource-sharing project.