There are several ways in which a serial issued in parts can be treated.

a. Separate records. Create separate records when:

1) The parts can be used independently. The Journal of polymer science is issued in three parts, each covering a different topic. Example:

In such cases, one or both of the following may also be true:

2) The parts have their own numerical/ chronological designation (362). Separate records are necessary because otherwise you would have two or more issues with the same designation represented by the same record and call number. The separate record and call number are needed to record each separate designation system. Example:

3) The parts can be purchased separately. If each part can be separately purchased it is better to catalog the parts separately since libraries may wish to purchase some but not all of the parts.

Separate records must also be made when:

4) The parts are not numbered. Separate records must be made in this situation because there is no way to distinguish one part from the other if both are cataloged on one record and given the same call number. It would also be impossible to record the issues on the same check-in record. Example:

Do not link the various parts to one another (see CCM 14.4.5.).

b. One record. Generally create one record when:

1) The parts have an integrated numbering system. If the parts cannot be separately recorded and bound due to an integrated numbering scheme, record all parts on the same record. Example:

2) The parts are designed to be used together. The serial may be issued in more than one volume simply because the contents are too extensive to fit in one volume. Example:

Since the number of volumes may vary as the contents grow, a more general note is often preferable. Example:

In other cases the contents of the parts may be unique but designed to augment each other, such as an annual report for which the statistics are issued in a separate volume.

The following may also be true:

3) The parts are numbered but do not have their own titles. The parts are merely called "vol. 1, vol. 2" or "Part A, Part B," etc.

4) The parts have continuous pagination.

5) The parts cannot be purchased separately.

When in doubt, prefer separate records.

See also:

17.3. Serials issued in parts