Implementation of Official RDA at the Library of Congress

  • Academic Public School Special

Library of Congress Begins Implementation of Official RDA

The Library of Congress (LC) began its phased implementation of Official RDA (Resource Description and Access) on October 5, 2026. Official RDA is the updated standard libraries use to describe and organize resources in their catalogs. As the transition progresses, catalogers may begin seeing bibliographic records created using Official RDA guidelines. These records will include updated coding in the MARC 040 field and BIBFRAME description conventions. 

The transition will take place in phases. LC expects its special-format cataloging units, including those handling music, maps, rare books, and audiovisual materials, to transition in spring 2027. LC also expects its Cataloging-in-Publication (CIP) partners and vendors to transition by May 12, 2027.

What does this mean for our member libraries?

Libraries may begin encountering records created under Official RDA as they receive and use cataloging records from LC and other providers. Individual libraries and Program for Cooperative Cataloging (PCC) participants will establish their own implementation timelines; they are not required to follow LC's internal schedule.

LC is making training materials, including recorded tutorials and lesson plans, available through its Catalogers Learning Workshop. Additional PCC training resources will be posted as they become available.

Learn More and Explore Training Resources: 

We encourage cataloging staff to review these resources and stay informed as the transition to Official RDA progresses.