Field definition and scope:

Field 646 contains a one-character alphabetic code that indicates a specific organization's classification practice for a series named in the 1XX field of an established heading record for a series.  The code specifies whether the volumes in the series are classified as a collection, with the main series, or separately.  The field may also contain the volumes/dates and/or the institution/copy identification to which the classification practice applies.

Field 646 is not used to indicate that a series-like phrase is not classified.

Varying classification practices for different

--  ranges of volumes/dates within a series

--  copies or sets within the same organization

--  organizations

are contained in separate 646 fields.

The National level record requirement for this field is Optional.

Field 646 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 646

Series Classification Practice

O

R

Indicator:

 

 

 

First

Undefined; contains a blank

M

 

Second

Undefined; contains a blank

M

 

 

 

 

 

Subfield code:

 

 

 

$a

Series classification practice

M

NR

$d

Volumes/dates to which classification practice applies

current - O

earlier   - M

NR

$5

Institution/copy to which field applies

M

R

$6

Linkage

A

NR

$8

Field link and sequence number

O

R

Input conventions:

Punctuation

Capitalization

Spacing

Order

Display constants

Content designator history:

First Indicator

Values  0 - Current numbering example  [obsolete, 1997]  [CAN/MARC only]

1 - Earlier numbering example  [obsolete, 1997]  [CAN/MARC only]

LC Guidelines:

 646  Series Classification Practice

DCM Z1 Instructions:

 646  Series Classification Practice

64X  Series Treatment

Related MARC fields or documents:

050  Library of Congress Call Number

060  National Library of Medicine Call Number

070  National Agricultural Library Call Number

082  Dewey Decimal Call Number

09X  Local Call Numbers

880  Alternate Graphic Representation

MARC Code List for Organizations

Symbols and Interlibrary Loan Policies in Canada

See also:

64X  Series Treatment

Variable Data Fields