define master catalogue?

A master catalog is a comprehensive database that contains information about all the materials held by a library or group of libraries. It is a central catalog that contains records for all the materials in the participating libraries’ collections. The main purpose of a master catalog is to provide a single point of access to the collections of multiple libraries, making it easier for patrons to find and access the materials they need.

A master catalog can be created by combining the catalogs of multiple libraries, or it can be a separate catalog that is created and maintained by a central organization. The records in a master catalog are typically created using a standardized cataloging system, such as the Library of Congress Classification system, which ensures that the records are consistent and can be easily searched and understood by patrons.

Master catalogs are used in library consortia, in which several libraries work together to share resources and provide patrons with access to a larger collection of materials. They can also be used by larger libraries with multiple branches, to provide a unified access to the materials of all branches in one catalog.

In summary, a master catalog is a comprehensive database that contains records for all the materials held by a library or group of libraries, it’s a central catalog that provides a single point of access to the collections of multiple libraries, making it easier for patrons to find and access the materials they need. It is often used by library consortia and large libraries with multiple branches.