What is Authority File

Information organization is a process of describing information sources and access points making the easy access to materials. Practicing authority control when organizing information is vital to guide proper information searching which is needed in the modern web era. The development of information organization is discussed from the period of Panizi, Cutter, Lubetzky and development of AACR up to RDA, FRBR model. Evolution of authority control education was also presented. The main purpose of this chapter is to share best practices followed at OUSL library and to emphasize its effectiveness among LIS professionals and LIS educators who are in the field. The chapter emphasizes the effectiveness of practicing subject analysis and authority control and how it is done by the library professionals, maintaining three authority files. Finally, the author emphasizes the necessity of curriculum changes at Master's level and changes needed for recruitment procedure of academic librarians. Compilation of national subject heading list (NSAC) is also emphasized and recommended.