It has been a couple of years since I posted statistics from WorldCat, so here is a new spreadsheet based on an October 1, 2009 snapshot (see the earlier post for an explanation of the table). WorldCat has changed dramatically...
* Alternative to OCLC cataloging already in some libraries
* Fewer records, emphasis on quality
* Copy cataloging record search and notification included
OCLC is beginning a major new initiative to expose the data contributed to WorldCat by member libraries in useful new ways
By Don Hamparian and Roy Tennant
OCLC is connecting the content, technology and expert capabilities of its member libraries worldwide to create the first Web-scale, cooperative library management service. Member libraries can take the first step to realizing this cooperative service model with a new, “quick start” version of the OCLC WorldCat Local service.
But, now more than ever, OCLC must end its attempts to restrict and monopolize library data. It was ugly and unfair for OCLC to claim ownership over what is largely public data. It is obscene to leverage that data monopoly into a software monopoly.