083 Dewey Decimal Classification Number

Field definition and scope:

Field 083 contains a single Dewey Decimal Classification number or a number span associated with a 1XX heading in an established heading record or a subdivision record. The classification number(s) may be qualified by a descriptive term when the heading is represented in more than one place in the Dewey classification schedules. In a subdivision record, the field also contains the number of the table from which the classification number is taken. Each classification number or number span associated with a heading is contained in a separate 083 field. The second indicator values distinguish between content actually assigned by the Library of Congress and content assigned by an organization other than LC. The organization is identified in subfield $5.

The source of the classification number is the Dewey Decimal Classification, accessed through electronic or printed versions.

The National level record requirement for this field is Optional.

Field 083 is repeatable.

Guidelines for applying content designators:

For indicator and subfield code definitions and examples, National level (NLR) record requirements, and designator repeatability, see table below:

Position	Description	NLR	Repeatability
Field 083	Dewey Decimal Classification Number	O	R
Indicator:
First	Type of edition	M
0	Full	A
1	Abridged	A
7	Other edition specified in subfield $2	A

Second	Source of classification number	M
0	Assigned by LC	A
4	Assigned by agency other than LC	A

Subfield code:
$a	Classification number element - single number or beginning number of span	M	NR
$b	Classification number element - ending number of span	A	NR
$c	Explanatory term	A	NR
$y	Table sequence number for internal subarrangement or add table	A	R
$z	Table identification - table number	A	NR
$2	Edition information	M	NR
$5	Institution to which field applies	A	R
$6	Linkage	A	NR
$8	Field link and sequence number	O	R

Input conventions:

Display constants

Content designator history:

First Indicator - Type of edition [CAN/MARC only]

Values # - No edition information recorded [obsolete, 1997]

2 - Abridged NST version [obsolete, 1997]

7 - Other edition specified in subfield $2 [new, 2011]

Second Indicator - Source of Classification Number [defined, 1995]: Prior to 1995, field 083 was an agency-assigned field and contained only classification numbers assigned by the Library of Congress. LC records created before the definition of this indicator may contain a # (blank) meaning undefined in this position.

Subfield $y - Table sequence number for internal subarrangement or add table [new, 2008]

Subfield $2 - Edition number [renamed, 2021] [redescribed, 2021]

LC Guidelines:

083 Dewey Decimal Classification Number