Authority Express

Authority Express (AEX) was developed in response to requests from libraries seeking an easy way to authorize new bibliographic records. Because the service is totally automated, turn-around time is rapid and scheduling is not an issue. AEX records receive the same processing as limited review, with the exception that there is no provision for editor review. Files up to 10,000 records are typically finished within one-half hour after they have been received at LTI. Larger files take proportionately longer. Any library having the capability to FTP a file on the Internet can use AEX. LTI also provides a web interface here on its web site. Popular browser software packages are supported to send and retrieve bibliographic and authority files. Although most users have had batch processing done by LTI, use is open to all libraries.

Libraries are assigned a secure user-name and password to access the AEX server. Newly cataloged records are then sent to LTI via FTP for processing. File naming conventions permit the ready identification of pre- and post processing bibliographic record, authority record, and report files.

Files returned to the library include:

  1. a file of output MARC catalog records, now fully authorized
  2. an ASCII text report showing the results of the processing--i.e., the Final Link Report
  3. an ASCII text file containing unlinked headings
  4. file(s) of MARC format new LC name and subject authority records
Further details regarding the naming of files for submission to Authority Express and an explanation of returned files are available. LC authority records from AEX runs are deduped automatically against authority records previously provided to the library, whether through previous batch processing or earlier AEX runs. Only the new authority records are returned to the library.

Another AEX feature is that new catalog records are merged into LTI's files of all the library's bibliographic records so that files are kept current for Authority Update Processing. While libraries using AEX will probably also want to use AUP, there is no requirement to do so.

Costs, Invoicing, and Ordering

There are two charges associated with the Authority Express service: (1) each catalog record processed is billed at 10¢; and, (2) each file submitted for processing incurs a $10.00 fee. Libraries are invoiced at the end of every month for the actual usage during that month.

Libraries wishing to initiate participation in AEX should complete and return the service initiation form. The designated contact is sent an email providing a user name, password, and use instructions.

Adding and Deleting Authority Records

LTI keeps an historical file of all authority records provided to the library in any authority control service. There may be times when a library wishes to delete authority records from LTI's copy of that file or add additional authority records to it. Instructions on how to do so are available. The cost for each add or delete file sent is $10. There is no "per record" charge for this service.