Alternatives and Options (Introduction)
Some rules or parts of rules are introduced by the words, alternatively or optionally. These provisions arise from the recognition that different solutions to a problem and differing levels of detail and specificity are appropriate in different contexts. Some alternatives and options should be decided as a matter of cataloging policy for a particular catalog or archive and should therefore be exercised either always or never. Other alternatives and options should be exercised case by case. It is recommended that all cataloging archives distinguish between these two types of options and keep a record of their policy decisions and of the circumstances in which a particular option may be applied.
The necessity for judgment and interpretation by the cataloger is recognized in these rules. Such judgment and interpretation may be based on the requirements of a particular catalog or upon the use of the items being cataloged. The need for judgment is indicated in these rules by phrases such as if appropriate, if important, and if necessary. These indicate recognition of the fact that uniform legislation of types and sizes of catalogs is neither possible nor desirable, and encourage the application of individual judgment based on specific local knowledge. This statement in no way contradicts the value of standardization. Such judgments must be applied consistently within a particular context and must be documented by the individual archive.
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