26. References
Reference Evaluation:
All cross references on authority records in the automated name authority file must eventually be in accordance with LC/AACR2 practice in matters of form, style, and choice of references. Although much work was done prior to the adoption of AACR2 to identify the correct AACR2 heading, it was not possible to do this in advance for references. Near the end of 1980, a new fixed field (008/29) (FN 1 ) was added to the authorities format to indicate explicitly the status of the references with regard to the heading. The values in this byte of the fixed field are
a = references have been evaluated
b = references have not been evaluated
n = there are no references in the record
For records in the automated file and coded for AACR2 at the time of the "flip" of the name authority file on November 15, 1980, the value "b" was automatically added to all records with cross references and "n" to all records without references. Records on the file but not coded for AACR2 at the time of the "flip" and records created before 1981 but added to the database after November 15 had the fixed field value "b" set as the result of the master file conversion completed March 22, 1984.
When making any change to an authority record on which the references have not been evaluated, the descriptive cataloger must evaluate and adjust the references for AACR2 and LC practice. This must be done even if no actual changes are made to the reference tracings.
In evaluated references, search the necessary related authority records to verify the AACR2 forms. If the headings on the related authority records are already in correct AACR2 form (and coded so to indicate this), it is not necessary also to evaluate the references on these records unless some other change to the record is needed. Otherwise, apply LCRI 26.3B-C, Evaluating Existing References.
Linking References:
References need not be made from the form used in pre-1981 cataloging to the form used under AACR2. Such references may be made, however, if judged useful by the cataloger or for specified projects. Although no longer routinely made, linking references are retained in existing authority records. The provisions below are being retained for use in those instances when the linking reference is judged useful and for historical purposes.
1. Functions of linking references
2. Guidelines for when to trace linking references
3. Special instructions on linking references for uniform titles
26.3. Geographic Names and Names of Corporate Bodies
26.5. References to Added Entries for Series and Serials
26.6. References Instead of Added Entries Common to Many Editions
See also:
Library of Congress Rule Interpretations: Contents
