Understanding FRBR. . . features chapters contributed by leading authorities in the cataloging field. . . . It offers a basic introduction to FRBR, discussions about FRBR, FRAD (functional requirements for authority data), and RDA (resource description and access), and the issues involved in using FRBR in nontraditional library settings such as with cartographic materials and music. Both books are well illustrated and include numerous bibliographical resources.' [Reviewed in conjuntion with FRBR: A Guide for the Perplexed].

Library Journal

Understanding FRBR is clearly written, well illustrated (many of the concepts are clarified by very helpful diagrams), and well indexed; additionally, chapters feature extensive bibliographies, many of which provide URLs to the IFLA groups' documents. While it may seem that this book is of interest only to catalogers, the application of FRBR will change the structure of catalog and the systems used to store and display it; therefore, it is an important text for systems librarians, reference librarians, and anybody else interested in the future of the organization and display of bibliographic information.

College & Research Libraries

The emergence of this textbook is testimony to the breadth and depth of work done to date. It documents much of that work, and provides a good basic introduction to FRBR that is broadly understandable. . . . The relational concepts within FRBR are complicated and can be challenging. This book does a good job of illuminating them in a straightforward manner. It also describes how the application of the FRBR concepts could improve our systems of bibliographic access in very specific ways. . . . For those of us that really want or need to be able to predict the impact that FRBR will have on our work, this is an accessible explanation of the current state of the art. As such it is a real contribution to our understanding.

TechKNOW

Taylor and her contributors cover FRBR and introduce the reader to FRAD as well. . . . All chapters conclude with current and useful references to further reading and more information.

Booklist

Arlene Taylor and her compadres don't even try to teach you how to construct a hierarchical record. Instead, they direct their efforts toward showcasing what's possible when digital technology and traditional cataloging practice meet. This is the future of cataloging.

Library Media Connection

Understanding FRBR is a useful and timely book that brings together recent developments in FRBR and offers several assessments of it.

Technicalities