Module 12.5. Main series and subseries

A main series and subseries is similar to a common title and section title, except that there is a third title on the piece which may be a monograph or a serial. (9) In other words, a subseries is analyzable; a section title is unanalyzable. Apply AACR2 rules 12.1B4-B6 and LCRI 1.6H when determining whether two statements should be recorded as a main series and subseries or as separate series. In order to be recorded as a main series/subseries the two statements must appear on the same source (AACR2 12.1B4/LCRI).

Tracing main series and subseries differs, depending on whether the main series is numbered or unnumbered, For serials, this distinction is not always obvious because the numbering is omitted. When the main series is unnumbered, one tracing is given. When the main series is numbered a separate tracing must be given for the main series alone without the subseries, regardless of whether the subseries is numbered or unnumbered. Thus, two tracings are given: one containing just the main series and the other containing both main series and subseries. If the numbering were to be given, the numbering of the main series would be given with the first and the numbering of the subseries would be given with the second. Example:

The series in this example consists of a main series ($a), subseries designation ($n), and subseries ($p). The full name appears only on the series title page. The series number "no. 14" which appears on the cover applies to the subseries. The main series is unnumbered.