Authority Control in Alma (WIP)

One of the strengths of Alma's network model is the ability to provide both centralized and distributed authority control. Centralized aspects include having access to several controlled vocabularies and thesauri to all members through the Alma Community Zone, and having routine maintenance jobs performed on shared Network Zone bib records. Distributed access includes the option for libraries to maintain local authorities within their own Institution Zones. This page provides an overview of authority control options provided for I-Share members.

Thesauri Provided via Alma Community Zone

Ex Libris provides authority records for 37 different controlled vocabularies in the Alma Community Zone (CZ). These include the following thesauri that I-Share members have used in the past:

If your institution uses another vocabulary not listed here or in Ex Libris' vocabulary list, you may have that loaded to your institution zone. CARLI will be testing options for including shared authorities in the Network Zone as well.

Including Local Authority Records in Your Institution Zone

Ex Libris has enabled your Institution Zone for local authorities using the LCNAMES, LCSH, and MESH vocabularies. You may 

Notify CARLI which types of authority records you may be saving locally. If you need to create a new local vocabulary, CARLI staff will help you create the local authority definition.

Adding Individual Authority Records

Creating Authority Records, from Ex Libris Knowledge Center, Working with Authority Records.

Importing Authority Records

[details on using an import profile for authority records]

Background Resources

Ex Libris Presentations on Authorities

Ex Libris Authorities in Alma Series

• Session 1: A General Overview of Authority Control in Alma
• Session 2: An Overview of Local Authorities in Alma
• Session 2: CARLI Post-webinar Discussion
• Session 3: Authority Control Task List (available after March 10)