Module 15. Summary
Consider the entire serial when
assigning subject headings, not just one issue or a portion of the serial.
Because serial subject headings
cover the entire serial, they are often more general than those assigned
to monographs.
In most cases, one to three subject
headings are sufficient to characterize a serial.
Consider assigning more headings
when many different topics are covered- -and the serial warrants the additional
coverage.
Consider a subdivision's appropriateness
before adding it to a subject heading.
Do not supply a topical subject
heading for a serial about a corporate body, such as an
annual report, unless the heading is for the activity
or field reported on.
To save time in determining the
subject, look for clues in the preface, table of contents, masthead, or editorial pages.
Consider also whether headings
already assigned for the earlier title in the case of a title change,
or to a monograph
record for the same title, or other related works might be appropriate
for the serial record.
LCSH
and MeSH headings differ because
the first covers all human knowledge, while the second covers only medical
topics. They also differ in punctuation, capitalization, and the number
of headings needed.
See also: