Notes are constructed in AACR2 records according to the Chicago Manual of Style (2) (AACR2 0.11). For example, do not begin a note with a date or a number.

a. Form of notes:

Examples given in AACR2 and rules 12.7A1 and 1.7A3, point to a preferred style for formal notes, i.e., [introductory word(s)]: [information], [dates]

This pattern should be followed in creating notes, when possible, but if the information does not lend itself to this wording, do not force it to fit. Also, when encountering a note composed by another cataloger, do not alter it solely for stylistic reasons.

b. Wording in notes:

AACR2 explicitly states that the wording of notes in the examples is not prescriptive (AACR2 0.27). Some notes, however, require certain introductory words, such as "Description based on: ... " or "Title from ... " In some cases, the MARC format uses display constants to generate introductory phrases, such as "Continued by: ... " or " Other title: ... " Many notes, however, are more informal, with wording left to the cataloger. Avoid using cataloger’s jargon. Terms such as " parallel title" or " statement of responsibility" may make perfect sense to you but little to the users of your records.

The terms "Called" and "Called also" (or "Also called") are frequently used in serial records, particularly in relation to designations. "Called ... " implies that there is one designation and it has changed. "Called also" indicates that an additional designation has been added. While "Called also" has been used for years, the writers of this manual find "Also called" to be better English, so both forms will be found.

c. Punctuation:

End notes with a period unless the field already ends with a hyphen (-) or an angle bracket (>). Use ISBD prescribed punctuation in notes when the data given corresponds to the data given in the descriptive portions of the record (e.g., notes for publishers) (AACR2 1.7A3).

According to AACR2 12.7A1, separate an introductory phrase from the text of the note by a colon. Example:

Note: The examples in AACR2 show titles followed by a space-slash-space and the statement of responsibility. Since CONSER practice is to cite other works in their catalog entry form (e.g., 1XX/245, 130, etc.), the statement of responsibility is rarely used in notes (LCRI 12.7A2).

d. Language of notes:

Notes are given in English. (3) Regardless of the language of the text, give supplied words in English, but give names, titles, or designations in the language in which they appear (AACR2 1.0E1).

See also:

13.2. Constructing notes for serial records