Virtual common query or a physical central database? A comparison of the technical background of MOKKA and KözElKat

Abstract

The database systems performing common queries (example in Hungary: KözElKat) are compared with those using a central database (MOKKA), as regards shared cataloguing solutions. The advantages and disadvantages of each system are analysed from a variety of aspects, such as system complexity, database server workload, search and display capabilities, authority control, impact on libraries, with a view also to the potential user groups of each solution. An attempt is made to identify in which fields these systems can be used at their optimum. The issues discussed may be of special relevance when the enhancement of the MOKKA system (the Hungarian National Shared Catalogue) is going to start soon.