Appendix L.  Special Types of Cataloging (LC minimal level, newspapers, pre-pubs, reprints, rare serials)

This appendix focuses on cataloging records created according to special guidelines.  Documentation relevant to the cataloging of each type is mentioned where appropriate.

1.  LC minimal level cataloging records

Following are the elements that are routinely given in original minimal level serial records created by the Library of Congress.  Additional fields may be given when information is readily available.  Name headings used in MLC records are searched against the LC name authority and bibliographic files.  Name authority records are not created, but all names are given in AACR2 form.

When existing OCLC records are adapted for LC's minimal level serial titles the records are retained at the level originally input, except that level L records are upgraded to level 7.  Full level records adapted for MLC use will frequently contain elements in addition to those listed below, including subject headings which are verified to assure that they are valid and properly constructed.

2.  Newspaper cataloging

The following elements are listed to indicate special practices for newspaper records, according to the instructions in CCM Module 33, "Newspapers."  Most newspaper records in the CONSER database were input by members of the United States Newspaper Program (CEG A6.1).  The core record for newspapers identifies all elements considered essential to the description and access of newspapers, with all elements fully authoritative (CEG B6.4.2).  Newspapers are cataloged according to AACR2 chapters 1 and 12 and CCM Module 33.

3.  NSDP prepublication records

NSDP creates provisional records to record the ISSN and key title assignment for a serial prior to its publication.  Once the serial is published and NSDP has received a copy or a surrogate, NSDP completes the description, checks the headings, and adds "msc" or "lcd" to field 042.  NSDP also closes off and adds links to any related records at this time.  CONSER participants may update prepub records by following procedure given in C6. Prepublication Records and ISSN for U.S. Imprints.

4.  Regular-print reprints

Serial records for regular-print reprints are created according to the guidelines in LCRIs 12.0 and 1.0.  The description is based on AACR2 chapters 1 and 12 and LCRI 12.0B1.

5.  Rare serials

CONSER records for rare serials may be created according to the normal guidelines provided in AACR2 and the Library of Congress Rule Interpretations.  If desired, CONSER participants may also use the appropriate sections of the Descriptive Cataloging of Rare Books (DCRB), namely, sections 0-4 (General Rules through the Publication, etc. Area) and section 7 (Note Area).  For specific instructions on serials, see also Appendix C in the DCRB.  Tagging for rare serial records is given according to the instructions set forth in the CEG, as amended by instructions given below.

Creating records for the whole serial.  Chart 1 shows the data elements that are appropriate in CONSER records created for rare serials according to the provisions of the DCRB.  Data elements given in this chart apply to the whole serial.

Creating records for individual issues of rare serials.  Individual issues of rare serials are cataloged as monographs using the Books format on OCLC and bibliographic level "m."  Chart 2 shows the data elements that would be appropriate in records created for individual issues.  Data elements given in Chart 1 may also be applicable.

6.  LC core level cataloging records

Beginning in November 1998, LC adopted the core record as its default for cataloging.  The essential definition of a core level serial record is one that provides appropriate access to and identification of a serial publication, and all elements are authoritative.  Implicit in the adoption of the core record is the need to adopt a cataloging philosophy centered on fulfilling the needs of the user rather than satisfying an unyielding list of required elements.  Although core level is the default, catalogers will continue to create full and minimal level records for those items selected for that level.

Following are the fields that LC catalogers will provide in addition to those contained in the CONSER standards, found in B6, and instructions for the use of fields in LC core records.

Variable fields

Special instructions

Added entries.  (246, 6XX, 710-730)  Provide added entries when they are essential for access or for the adequate identification of the serial or its relationships.  However, avoid providing redundant information, e.g., if a 772 link is given, a 730 added entry generally would not be provided.  Additionally:

246 Variant titles:  Give variant titles when they are significantly different from the title proper.  Avoid giving variants of variants.

6XX Subject headings:  Those most essential to the identification and access of the serial are required.  It is up to the cataloger to decide what is "most essential."

700-75X Added entries:  Generally provide a 7XX added entry when it covers the primary relationship associated with a work.  For corporate body added entries, try to determine the truly responsible body and provide access at the level that's appropriate to the content.  Generally, do not provide added entries for bodies whose function is merely publishing.  If in doubt about the body's function, do not give an added entry.  For related works, generally, avoid giving title added entries if the relationship has been explained or access has been provided in other fields.

Linking Fields.  (765-785)  Linking fields for earlier or later titles must be provided.  Other linking fields and notes will be included when they are necessary for identification and/or retrieval.

780/785 Earlier/later title(s):  Required if applicable.

765/767 Original language/translation:  If a 130 is already present, the 765/767 may be unnecessary; generally provide these links only if important information is added.

770/772 Supplement/parent record:  Generally provide these links.  Generally do not also give a related work added entry (730).

775 Other edition:  Provide these links when the related edition is bibliographically significant, e.g., language editions.  Avoid giving links for regional editions.

776 Other physical format:  Generally provide this link.

787 Non-specific relationship:  Generally do not provide this link.

See also:

Section F.  Appendices

CONSER Editing Guide:  Contents