RDA, Resource Description and Access is a model for cataloging which will eventually replace what is known as the AACR2/MARC model. RDA is a standard for cataloging which is based on the abstract relationship-entity model which is known as FRBR, Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records. It is currently used and/or is being implemented by many institutions as their model for cataloging. It will eventually replace the older model for bibliographic information known as AACR2/MARC model. While the AAR2/MARC model has been a useful tool for now several decades, it does not offer the flexibility and expanded methods of cataloging that are needed in today’s online environment.
In 2010, the Library of Congress participated in the US RDA Test. The outcome of this participation resulted in the recommendation that the three national libraries adopt RDA; however it was recommended that the implementation of this cataloging standard not occur before January, 2013. To learn more about the statements made by the Library of Congress regarding RDA, please visit their site at http://www.loc.gov/catdir/cpso/RDAtest/rdatest.html, where information regarding the subject is freely available. There are also some great webcasts explaining the background of RDA that can also be found on the Library of Congress website at http://www.loc.gov/catdir/cpso/RDAtest/rdatraining.html.