Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to focus on duplicate record detection algorithms used for detection in bibliographic databases. Design/methodology/approach - Individual algorithms, their application process for duplicate detection and their results are described based on available literature (published articles), information found at various library web sites and follow-up e-mail communications. Findings - Algorithms are categorized according to their application as a process of a single step or two consecutive steps. The results of deletion, merging, and temporary and virtual consolidation of duplicate records are studied. Originality/value - The paper presents an overview of the duplication detection algorithms and an up-to-date state of their application in different library systems.