Leader/17 Code 7:

Minimal level:

This level indicates a record containing all elements specified as mandatory for minimal level cataloging in the USMARC Format for Bibliographic Data. The salient feature of records with encoding level "7" is that subject headings are not likely to be present. Four categories of records that carry this encoding level:

1. Records based on the elements prescribed for minimal level cataloging as defined in Appendix A of the USMARC Format for Bibliographic Data.

2. Records created by NSDP and ISSN Canada. (Records created by NSDP prior to March 1, 1982 carry encoding level "I", which is machine converted to "#" prior to distribution of the record.)

3. Records created as part of the U.S. Newspaper Program.

4. Records created by NLC. Starting in March 1991, NLC creates minimal level records for certain categories of Canadian serials. Data elements correspond to the 1st-2nd level of description as specified in AACR2. Class numbers are assigned to non-government serials. Call numbers are assigned to non-government serials other than periodicals.

NOTE: When updating records in categories 1 or 2 to full level, a CONSER member should change encoding level "7" to "#".