In the past couple of months, we have noticed an influx of tickets with a common subject: inconsistencies in fully cataloged records with OCLC encoding level 8.
The reported inconsistencies referred to incorrect pagination, omission of Roman numerals, illustrations, missing 007 tag in audiovisual materials, etc.
Level 8 is a pre-pub level of cataloging, and while the records are generally good, they require a thorough examination and often some upgrading once the item is published.
Therefore, we would like to emphasize the following points for when you encounter OCLC records with encoding level 8:
- If you still have the item on-order, do not rely entirely on metadata quality in OCLC. Once you receive the item, records still need to be examined for physical description accuracy, and main access points, such as edition statements, added authors, and subject headings.
- Verify authorized headings and series statements.
- Depending on the record, if you are unable to make the necessary edits in OCLC, please do so in WorkFlows.
Series Statement
We are happy with tickets requesting correction or addition of series statements. Bib Services team has been working diligently to respond to these requests, but we also ask cataloging libraries to dedicate special care to series, to make sure they are included and formatted correctly. One extra minute will save everyone’s time later.
Serials Call Number training
In addition to the nine sessions offered from November through March, with an attendance of representatives from 93 libraries, the Bibliographic Services team has examined and corrected call numbers for the Weeklies 2021 twice.
We hope this initiative will have a positive impact in the way call numbers are formatted, fewer holds issues and a cleaner database.
If you see inconsistencies in the serials call numbers, please submit a ticket to help@swanlibraries.net
And if your library was unable to attend the webinars, you can find a recorded session and the PowerPoint on the support page: Tutorials & Training Resources.
- Cataloging Corner
Bibliographic Services Team