Library and

Information
Science

Module-2 Organization of Library Resources: Advanced

Unit-1: Library Classification

After studying this Unit, students will be able to:
2
Know the concept of Main Class
2
Understand the concept of Fundamental Categories
2
Explain the APUPA Pattern
2
Develop practical approach for classification
2
Gain knowledge about practical classification from the Colon Classification (CC) and Dewey Decimal
Classification (DDC) Schemes

Contents
2.1.1 Introduction
2.1.2 Main Class
2.1.2.1 Facets of a Main Class
2.1.3 Concept of PMEST (Fundamental Category)
2.1.3.1 Time
2.1.3.2 Space
2.1.3.3 Energy
2.1.3.4 Matter
2.1.3.5 Personality
2.1.4 APUPA pattern
2.1.5 Steps in Library Classification
2.1.6 Classification by CC & DDC
2.1.6.1 Classification by CC
2.1.6.2 Classification by DDC
2.1.7 Summary
2.1.8 Glossary
2.1.9 Exercise

51
Library and
Information
Science

2.1.1 Introduction
In our daily life, we use classification to put similar things together. Similarly, libraries may
have hundreds, thousands or even lakhs of documents, which include not only books, but
various other kinds of documents as well. If we do not keep these books/documents in a
systematic order, it becomes difficult to locate the document(s) required by the users.
Without a proper system of classification, it will be very difficult to find a particular
document amongst the hundreds or thousands of documents available in a library.
Library Classification is a technique, which helps in the proper organization and
arrangement of documents and information in a systematic manner, so that the user can use
sources of information effectively. The whole universe of knowledge is divided into several
subject areas which are multidimensional in nature. Each classification scheme divides the
universe of knowledge into different classes denoted by specific notations, symbols,
numbers, and so on. The library classification helps in the following ways:-
i. Shelf arrangement of documents
ii. Subject analysis of documents
iii. Aids automated and semi-automated information retrieval system,
iv. Aids data or information retrieval, and
v. Specifies the location of a particular document

2.1.2 Main Class

The library classification of a document consists of two steps. First, the "aboutness" of the
material is ascertained, and second, a class number, based on the classification scheme,
which is used in a particular library, is assigned to the material using the notation of the
system. In library classification systems, each document can be placed only under one class,
referred to as the main class. This is done for shelving purposes because a book can have
only one physical place.
Dr. Ranganathan (1967) defined the Main Class as “the fairly homogenous conventional
regions of knowledge, which together form the first order array of classes which are
mutually exclusive and totally exhaustive of the field of knowledge”.
The main classes in all the schemes of classification may not be the same. The classes which
appear as the major divisions of the universe of knowledge are the main classes in that
classified scheme. Once the knowledge is organized into a number of main classes, the next
step is to mark the facets of each main class, derived from the main classes. These reflect the
specific component of a subject.

52
 Library and
Information
Science

2.1.2.1 Facets of a Main Class

Let us first understand what are facets and isolates in the context of library classification.
Facet is a generic term used to denote the components of a basic subject, i.e., basic facet or an
isolate facet of a compound subject. An isolate is any idea or idea complex to form a
component of a subject, but not deemed singularly to be a subject. Isolates are of two kinds –
common isolates and special isolates.
When we divide the universe of knowledge up to the stage of the Main Class, facets do not
appear. But when we have to divide a Main Class, the concept of facets appears in the case
of some main classes. The purpose of facets is to divide a main class into its possible
divisional aspects. As the Main Class contains a number of smaller units of ideas or entities
within it, one method of their division is to group them all into one consecutive sequence.
Another possible method for the division of a main class is to divide it first into its possible
facets. The process can be termed as recognition of categories under a class. Therefore, any
class enumerated in the first order array of a scheme of classification of the universe of
knowledge is categorised as a main class.

2.1.3 Concept of PMEST (Fundamental Category)

The Colon Classification scheme contains both, the basic subjects and their facets (which
contain isolates). A basic subject can stand alone but in contrast an isolate is a term that
mediates a basic subject. To create a class number, the basic subject is named first. The
isolates follow, entered according to a facet formula. This formula states that every isolate
in every facet is a manifestation of one of the five fundamental categories -- personality,
matter, energy, space, and time. Personality is the distinguishing characteristic of a subject.
Matter is the physical material of which a subject may be composed. Energy is any action
that occurs with respect to the subject. Space is the geographic component of the location of
a subject. And time is the period associated with a subject.
As mentioned above, there are five fundamental categories into which a subject or main
class is divided. These are the five aspects of a subject.

Main Class

P M E S T
Personality Matter Energy Space Time

Fig 2.1.1: The five aspects of a subject

53
Library and
Information
Science

Dr. Ranganathan named the five fundamental categories as PMEST, which is, Personality,
Matter, Energy, Space and Time. A subject may have a Personality aspect, a Matter aspect,
an Energy aspect, a Space aspect, and a Time aspect.

2.1.3.1 Time
According to Mills, the fundamental category, Time “is usually embodied in periods”.
According to Dr. Ranganathan, “The fundamental category time occurs in every subject
forming a local description of local history of any subject”. Time indicates that the entities
under different subjects must change in its structure, meaning, history development, with
the progress of times.
Example: History of the 18th century is different from that of the 15th century.

2.1.3.2 Space
According to Dr. Ranganathan, “the surface of the earth is a manifestation of the category
'Space'. It occurs in every subject forming a local description or local history of any subject.”
Most of the subjects, if not all, get manifested in relation with continents, countries and their
subdivisions.
In CC (Colon Classification), there is a schedule of Geographical Divisions which can be
attached to a subject. In DDC (Dewey decimal classification), there is a space facet
applicable under the class History, and throughout the scheme the facet is available under
the direction divide, like 940-999.
Example: In the following examples, the term denoting space is given in brackets.
i. Agriculture in (India) brought up to 1990
ii. History of education in (India)

2.1.3.3 Energy
According to Mills, the fundamental category, Energy is, “a category of facets which
characterize the exercise of energy, i.e., activities, operations, processes, problems, etc.”
Palmer and Wells feel that Energy “usually presents itself as a problem to be solved, or a
mode of work or approach.” Dr. Ranganathan, in his Colon Classification, calls the facet
based on the characteristic Energy, the problem facet. Thus, the fundamental Energy covers
the problems, action including methods, functioning, and etc. aspects of a main class. Many
main classes will have certain units which deal with the problems in the subject. These
problems are generally applicable to all the organs of the class.
In the class Agriculture, certain processes and actions like sowing and harvesting also come
under Botany; units like physiology, and pathology are noticed in Zoology and Medicine,
which deal with functioning. Isolates, which make the category Energy, are generally
important actions in the subject and commend a greater influence on the subject from two

54
 Library and
Information
Science

directions. One is when they are in general reference to the class and the second when they
refer to the organs of the subject individually.
Dr. Ranganathan postulates that the energy aspect in a main class may manifest itself in
different rounds of energy, that is, 2E= second round of energy after 1E; 3E= third round of
energy after 2E and so on. In Agriculture, the energy focus 'manuring' needs to be followed
by another energy facet consisting of foci (facet) such as collection, grading and application.
Another example is from Medicine. Pathology or disease is a problem and therefore it is
[1E] of the subject treatment and surgery, etc. are for actions on diseases themselves, and
therefore, they are the [2E] of the subject.

2.1.3.4 Matter
Dr. Ranganathan postulates matter as a fundamental category capable of manifesting itself
as the 'constituent of a whole'. However, Mills argues, “Matter is the category of facets
which reflect substances, materials, etc. It is manifested clearly in most technologies and in
many of the natural sciences; and it is generally absent from theoretical disciplines like Law,
Economics, Literature, etc.” Vikery feels that “Matter comprises constituent materials of all
kinds.”
The Matter facet is inherent in many subjects falling within a main subject. The ones
th
enumerated in CC are: Library Science, Engineering, Sculpture, Painting and Music. The 7
edition of the Colon Classification has given large scope to the Matter facet. There are three
groups of “Matter” viz. Matter Material, Matter Property and Matter Method.
For Example: In the Main class of Library Science, Matter figures as the reading material. In
the class Painting, Matter figures as the materials used for painting. In the class Music,
Matter figures as the musical instruments, and so on.
Dr. Ranganathan was convinced that the facet “Matter” should be expended into three
groups and many isolates from the facet “Energy” be shunted to “Matter Property”. The
three groups of Matter are:
1. Matter Property [MP]
Ex. Main Subject MP
Biology Morphology
Physiology
Education Thinking
Reasoning
2. Matter Method [MM]
Ex. Main Subject MP
Chemistry Physical Method
Fluid Method

55
Library and
Information
Science

3. Matter Material [MM]

Ex. Main Subject MP
Technology Product
Biology Substance

2.1.3.5 Personality
The fundamental category 'Personality' is most concrete and the category 'Time' is the most
abstract or the least concrete sector. The Personality facet indicates the core point of the
subject at hand. According to Palmer and Wells, 'the term personality is used for the
wholeness of any subject. Personality inheres in the subject itself and gives colour to the
other fundamental concepts transforming them into concrete things.'
The Personality facet is of prime importance in many subjects, belonging to different
classes, and it is the most recognizable facet for the specialists of a class. Personality is the
first facet in many subjects and it is often experienced that the other facets work as attributes
of personality for its further subdivision. Matter, Energy, Space, and Time are often
required in relation with the personality facet. The other facets are required in lesser degree
in relation to the main class. Without Personality there can be no organ, constituent,
attribute, action, etc.
According to Dr. Ranganathan, if a concept cannot easily fit into the other four categories
then it is probably a Personality facet. He further adds that Personality is only recognizable
by elimination. After separating out the manifestation of Time, Space, Energy and Matter in
the subject, the residue often turns out to be a personality facet. This may be called the
Principle of Residue.
Within the Personality facet, we find a number of levels into which the whole personality is
spread. These are known as levels of personality facet, P1, P2, P3, P4 and so on. The different
levels are arranged with the help of the principles of helpful sequence.
Example, Personality facet
Main class P1 P2 P3 P4
Literature Language Form Author work
The following example enumerates how the fundamental category, personality, is used in
DDC and CC respectively:
Main class Personality facet DDC CC
Psychology Abnormal psychology 137 S6
Zoology Vertebrate 596 K9
The fundamental category and the connecting symbols used to distinguish them in a class
number are as indicated below:

56
 Library and
Information
Science

Personality : The connecting symbol is comma (,)

Matter : The connecting symbol is semi-colon (;)
Energy : The connecting symbol is colon (:)
Space : The connecting symbol is period (.)
Time : The connecting symbol is inverted comma ( ' )

2.1.4 APUPA pattern

Dr. Ranganathan revolutionized classification in the early 20th century by proposing a
dynamic and nuanced system, which could easily adapt to new subjects and incorporate
more details and sub-categories. One of his ideas was the Alien-Penumbral-Umbral-
Penumbral-Alien, or APUPA system/pattern. It classifies material, based upon, how
closely they relate to a specific topic. He created the APUPA pattern as a method of
classifying books and documents based on their relevance to the searcher.
As per this method, documents are classified into three categories, that is, Alien, Penumbral
and Umbral. Here, an Umbral document implies a relevant document, which is of main
interest to the members of a library. A Penumbral document is meant for the marginal
interests of the readers. This type is partially relevant and in some way or the other related
to an Umbral document. An Alien document is non- relevant and thus, not required by the
reader. So, we can recognize the pattern which indicates that every helpful sequence of
book is Alien- Penumbral- Umbral- Penumbral- Alien, i.e., the APUPA arrangement.
The APUPA pattern, thus, arranges the most relevant documents at the center, documents
of marginal relevance on both sides of the relevant document and the totally disconnected
documents are far from the center. This is the best way to maintain filiatory sequence. The
filiatory sequence implies the placement of all the entities of a field of knowledge in a
definite sequence, in one line, according to the degree of their mutual affinities. A helpful
sequence therefore, is said to be the one which follows the APUPA pattern. APUPA
patterns are dynamic. Any book or other resource within a classification scheme can be an
Umbral source and any resource can also be Penumbral or Alien, depending upon the
subject.
As mentioned above, this sequence puts the most relevant records in the centre. The records
which are connected with it are placed before and after it; and those which are totally
disconnected are put at a distance from the Umbral. It is this kind of an APUPA
arrangement, which gives the reader great satisfaction. If it manages to do so, then it is said
to be in full conformity with all the Five Laws of Library Science.

57
Library and
Information
Science

Alien Penumbral Umbral Penumbral Alien

Fig 2.1.2: APUPA Arrangement

Example: If a user is seeking a book on 'growing oranges', that book is the Umbral source.
Books about 'packing and transporting oranges'; a related topic but not exactly the same are
Penumbral sources. Books about setting up industry for bottling orange juice would be
Alien, or unrelated sources.

2.1.5 Steps in Library Classification

Dr. Ranganathan has prescribed a procedure involving nine successive steps for translating
the title of the document; for analysing the title of a specific subject into facets, and for
giving it an appropriate class number. The steps are as given below.

Step 0: Write down the Raw Title (= Title as found in the document).
Step 1: Full title (= Title expressing each of the relevant basic and isolate ideas in the
subject of the document, arrived at by filling up all the ellipses in the Raw title). Deriving
the Expressive Title from the Raw Title by filling up ellipsis such as basic class or any
other facet implied in the Raw Title. This is done by breaking down composite terms
into their fundamental constituent terms, according to a principle which sets a limit to
the semantic depth of the fundamental terms.
Step 2: Kernel Title (= Full title except the auxiliary or apparatus words and each
composite term denotes a composite idea replaced by the fundamental constituent
terms, which denote its fundamental constituent ideas).
Step 3: Analysed title (= Kernel Title with each kernel term marked by a symbol, which
denotes the fundamental category of which the ideas denoted by the term is a
manifestation and also the round and the level to which it is assigned in conformity to
the postulates of classification). This is done essentially with the help of wall picture-
principle, taking two kernel terms at a time.
Step 4: Transformed Title (= Analytical Title with the kernel terms rearranged according
to the symbols of analysis attached to them).
Step 5: Title in standard terms (= Transformed title with the Kernel terms replaced,
wherever necessary by their respective equivalents as given in the appropriate
schedules).

58
 Library and
Information
Science

Step 6: Title in Facet Numbers (= Title in standard terms with the kernel terms replaced
by their equivalent numbers). Deriving the title in Facet Number from the title in
standard terms by translating the Basic Class Facet and every other facet into its Basic
Class Number or the Isolate Number, as the case may be. This is done with the aid of the
classification schedules. When any isolate is new, that is, not available in the schedule,
its isolate number is constructed with the aid of the principles.
Step 7: Class number (got by removing the symbols of analysis and inserting the
appropriate connecting symbols between the facet numbers in accordance with the
Rules).
Step 8: Translate the synthesized class number into natural language by way of
verification. In this step, carry out facet analysis of the Class Number, giving a digit by
digit interpretation and verifying the correctness of the number.

Steps 0 to 4 deal with the work in the idea plane. Step 5 deals with the work in the verbal
plane. Step 6 and 7 are concerned with the notational plane. Step 8 involves the examination
of work in all the planes. Step 0 shows the title as it appears on the document. Under Step 1,
adding the name of the main subject, if it is not included in the title and break the compound
terms into their constituent terms. Under Step 2, it shows only those terms which denote
kernel idea by removing other meaningless words like the auxiliary words - of, in, for, etc.
The words that are used in a natural language do not require translation in the artificial
language, and are omitted. In Step 3, the Kernel ideas represented by their respective terms
are analysed into categories (finding out who is what). They are branded according to the
postulates. Under Step 4, these terms are arranged in a sequence of concrete to abstract,
about which the postulate exists. Under Step 5, the non-standard terms are replaced by the
terms adopted in the scheme of classification. Under Step 6, each term is translated into
numbers. In Step 7, the various isolate numbers are connected with each other by the
symbols prescribed by the postulates. Lastly, Step 8 examines the entire process in the light
of the postulates.
Example: Feeding of Cattle in India
Step 0: Raw Title
Feeding of Cattle in India
Step 1: Full title
Feeding of Cattle in India in Animal Husbandry
As the name of the main class was missing in the raw title, it has been added under this step.
Step 2: Kernel Title
Feeding Cattle India Animal Husbandry
The words 'of' and 'in' are auxiliary words. They are not necessary for depicting the specific
subject of the document. Hence, they are omitted.

59
Library and
Information
Science

Step 3: Analysed title

Feeding [MP] cattle [P] India [S] Animal Husbandry (BC)
Feeding is a property, hence the manifestation of Matter Property; Cattle is a group of
animals, hence the manifestation of Personality, India is a geographical unit, hence the
manifestation of Space; Animal Husbandry is a recognized basic class.
Step 4: Transformed Title
Animal Husbandry (BC) Cattle [P] Feeding [MP] India [S]
The postulates prescribe that the BC will come first of all and the sequence of facets will be
PMEST. As [E] and [T] are absent the sequence maintained is [P] [M] [S].
Step 5: Title in standard form Animal Husbandry (BC) cattle (P) feeding (MP) India (S)
All the terms used are standard terms. Therefore, there is no need for replacing them.
Step 6: Title in Numbers
From CC (6thed.) KX (BC) 2 [P] 1[E] 44 [S]
From DDC 636(BC) 2(P) 084 (E) 0954 (S)
Step 7: Synthesised Number
th
CC (6 ed.) KX 2: 1044
DDC 636.208 40954
In CC, colon (:) was used to connect 1 of [E] and period (.) was used to connect 44 of [S]. In
th
DDC, dot (.) is used to connect 2 (P) and 0 (zero) is used to connect 954 of (S). In 7 edition of
CC semi colon (;) has been used to connect [MP] and period (.) is used to connect [S].
th
Step 8: Verification by reverse translation CC (6 ed.)
KX is Basic Class
2 is Personality facet
1 is Energy facet
44 is Space facet
Meaning thereby 'Feeding of cattle in India'
DDC
636 is Basic class
2 is Personality facet for cattle
084 is Problem facet for feeding
0954 is Space facet
Meaning thereby 'Feeding of cattle in India'.

60
 Library and
Information
Science

2.1.6 Classification by CC and DDC

2.1.6.1 Classification by Colon Classification (6thed.)
The sixth edition of Colon Classification is divided into three parts, namely Part 1: Rules,
Part 2: Schedules of Classification and Part 3: Schedules of Classics and Sacred Books with
Special Names. Part 1 and Part 2 will be used for practical classification in this syllabus.
The entire universe of knowledge is divided into the following Main classes:
z Generalia Spiritual experience and mysticism
1. Universe of knowledge MZ Humanities and social science
2. Library Science MZA Humanities
3. Book Science N Fine Arts
4. Journalism NX Literature and language
A Natural Science O Literature
AZ Mathematical Science P Linguistics
B Mathematics Q Religion
BZ Physical Sciences R Philosophy
C Physics S Psychology
D Engineering Ó Social Science
E Chemistry T Education
F Technology U Geography
G Biology V History
H Geology W Political Science
Hx Mining X Economics
I Botany Y Sociology
J Agriculture Yx Social Work
K Zoology Z Law
Kx Animal husbandry
L Medicine Illustrative
LX Pharmocognosy (:g) Criticism technique
M Useful Arts (P) Conference technique
(r) Administration report technique
(P) Communication theory
(X) Management

61
Library and
Information
Science

Part 2 contains different units dedicated for Common Isolate, Time Isolate, Space Isolate,
Language Isolate and different relations.
Each main class is started with the Facet formula and then facet numbers for each isolate of
different fundamental categories are provided. Each main class has rules, for constructing
the numbers, given in the 1st part of the Rules section.
To classify the documents/titles, we should know the steps for classification.
Practical Examples
Following examples show the synthesis of numbers:
1. Chemistry
The facet formula for the main class 'Chemistry' is E[P], [P2]: [E][2P]
Where, Foci in [P] = Substance
Foci in [P2] = Combination
Foci in [E][2P] = Problem
Title: Halogen derivative of Methane
Class Number: E611,1
Where, E = Chemistry (M.C.)
E611 = Chemistry (M.C.) Methane [P]
E611,1 = Chemistry (M.C.), Methane [P],
Halogen Derivative [P2]
2. Engineering
The facet formula for the class 'D Engineering' is D [P], [P2]: [E][2P]
Foci in [P] = Work
Foci in [P2] = Part (for all work facet except D6)
Foci in [E][2P] = Problem
Title: Design of steel window shutters
Class number: D38, 78: 4
Where,
D = Engineering (M.C.)
D38 = Engineering (M.C.), Steel [P]
D38,78 = Engineering(M.C.), Steel [P],
Window shutter [P2]

62
 Library and
Information
Science

D 38,78:4 = Engineering (M.C.), steel [P],

Window shelter [P2], Design [E]

3. Physics
Dr. Ranganathan has divided the main Class 'C Physics' into the following canonical
divisions:
C1 Fundamentals
C2 Properties of matter
C3 Sound
C4 Heat
C5 Light Radiation
C6 Electricity
C7 Magnetism
C8 Cosmic hypothesis
Each Canonical Division has its own facet formula.
C3 sound: the facet formula for this class is C3 [P]: [E][2P]
Where, Foci in [P] = Wave length
Foci in [E][2P] = Problem
Title: Analysis of ultra sound
Class number: C 35: 38
Where,
C = Physics (M.C.)
C3 = Physics (M.C.), Sound (C.C.)
C35 = Physics (M.C.), Sound (C.C.) Ultra sound [P]
C35:38 = Physics (M.C.), Sound (C.C.) Ultra sound [P],
Analysis [E]
4. Mathematics
The main class, mathematics, has been divided into the following canonical classes:
B1 Arithmetic
B2 Algebra
B3 Analysis
B4 Other Methods
B5 Trigonometry

63
Library and
Information
Science

B6 Geometry
B7 Mechanics
B8 Physio Mathematics
B9 Astronomy
The facet formula for B6 Geometry is B6 [P]: [E][2P]
Where, Foci in [P]= Space
Foci in [E][2P] = Method
Title: Differential methods in three dimensional geometry
Class number: B63:3
Where
B = Mathematics (M.C.)
B6 = Mathematics (M.C.), Geometry (C.C.)
B63 = Mathematics (M.C.), Geometry (C.C.),
Three Dimensions [P]
B63: 3 = Mathematics (M.C.), Geometry (C.C.),
Three Dimensions [P], Differential [E]
5. Medicine
The facet formula for the class medicine is L [P]: [E][2P]
Where, Foci in [P] = Organ
Foci in [E] = Problem
Foci in [2P] = Cause (for 4 Disease of [E])
Title: Treatment of tropical Diseases
Class Number: L 9H: 4:6
Where
L = Medicine (M.C.)
L9H = Medicine (M.C.), Tropical (special facet)
L9H:4 = Medicine (M.C.), Tropical (special facet),
Disease [E]
L9H:4:6 = Medicine (M.C.), Tropical (special facet),
Disease [E], Treatment [2E]

64
 Library and
Information
Science

6. Literature
The facet formula for the class Literature is O [P], [P]), [P3], [P4]
Where, Foci in [P] = Language
Foci in [P2] = Form
Foci in [P3] = Author
Foci in [P4] = Work
Title: Hamlet (written by Shakespeare, Author born in 1564)
Class Number: O11L, 2J64
Where,
O = Literature (M.C.)
O111 = Literature (M.C.), English [P]
O111, 2 = Literature (M.C.), English [P] (taken from language
Isolate schedule), Drama[P2]
O111,2J64 = Literature (M.C.), English [P](taken from language
Isolate schedule), Drama [P2], Author name [P3]
(got by chronological Device)
7. Economics
The Facet formula for the class Economics is X[P]: [E][2P]
Where, Foci in [P] = Business
Foci in [E][2P] = Problem
Title: Value of Paper money
Class number: X61; 4: 7
Where,
X = Economics (M.C.)
X61 = Economics (M.C.), Money [P]
X61; 4 = Economics (M.C.), Money [P]Paper [M]
X61; 4:7 = Economics (M.C.), Money [P]Paper [M], value [E]

2.1.6.2 Classification of documents using DDC 19th edition

In a library, various documents including books and other reading material are arranged
by their subjects. For arranging books, a classification system has to be adopted. The Dewey
Decimal Classification (DDC) is the most popular classification system used all over the
th
world. The 19 edition of DDC, published in 1979, has three volumes. Understanding of all
three volumes is very essential for classifying documents efficiently. For classifying the
documents, the following tasks have to be performed:

65
Library and
Information
Science

i. To determine the specific subject of the documents to be classified, and

ii. To assign appropriate notation from the schedules and tables to the specific subject.
th
Structure of DDC (19 edition)
th
The 19 edition of DDC has three volumes:
Volume 1: Introduction and Tables
Volume 2: Schedules
Volume 3: Relative Index
Volume 1: Introduction and Tables
The editors' “Introduction” explains in detail, the structure of the scheme, its various plans,
its features and provides full instructions on its use. It also provides guidance for
nd
determining the subject and subsequently, locating the appropriate class number. The 2
part of Volume 1 has seven Auxiliary Tables. These are: 1. Standard Subdivision, 2. Areas, 3.
Subdivision of individual languages, 5. Racial, Ethnic, National groups, 6. Languages, and
7. Persons.
Lastly, the three outlines of the scheme are given in the order of their increasing details. The
First Summary, also called the Ten Main Classes, provides a broad outline of the division of
the entire universe of knowledge as per this system. Each of these ten main classes is further
divided into ten branches called divisions. Hence, there are 100 divisions in all. This is
called the Second Summary or the 100 Division of DDC Furthermore, each of these 100
divisions are divided into ten parts called sections. Hence, there are 1000 sections in all. This
is called the Third Summary.
First Summary:
000 Generalities
100 Philosophy and related disciplines
200 Religion
300 Social Science
400 Langage
500 Pure Sciences
600 Technology (Applied Science)
700 The Arts
800 Literature
900 General Geography and History

66
 Library and
Information
Science

Second summary of the main class 300, social sciences, is as follows:

310 Statistics
320 Political Science
330 Economics
340 Law
350 Public Administration
360 Social Problems and Services
370 Education
380 Commerce
390 Customs, Etiquette, Folklore
Third summary of the division 330, economics is as follows:
330 Economics
331 Labour Economics
332 Financial Economics
333 Land Economics
334 Cooperatives
335 Socialism and related Systems
336 Public Finance
337 International Economics
338 Production
339 Macroeconomics and related Topics.
Volume 2: Schedules
This volume contains the division of subjects, arranged in a sequence of decimal fraction
numbers from 001-999. The numbers are given in numerical order and show hierarchical
relations of subjects. To understand the correct and efficient use of the schedules, it is
necessary to understand the various notes and instructions provided under various entries.
Any number enclosed in square brackets is no more in use. Hence, such a number is not to
be used.
Example: [309] Social situation and condition
[306] Unassigned etc.
While assigning the class number, transcription of class number is required:
2
No class number consists of less than three digits, e.g., 500, 530, etc.

67
Library and
Information
Science

2
When a class number extends beyond three digits a period (.) is put between the third
and fourth digits, e.g., 324.3.
2
To break the monotony of lengthy numbers and to aid memory a period (.) is used
after the third digit.
2
If a class number extends beyond six digits then after every third digits, a space is left.
In other words, after the sixth digit the remaining digits are transcribed in 'group of
three' leaving a space between two groups.
Example: 621.38800287 is actually transcribed as:
621.388 002 87
Volume 3: Relative Index
Volume 3 of DDC is the Relative Index. It is a kind of index which not only arranges the
concepts and their terms in an alphabetical sequence but also shows the relationship
between the terms and the context in which the subjects appear in the schedule. It makes an
independent approach to classification.
Assigning class numbers with the help of tables and schedules:
There are seven auxiliary tables, which support the schedules for the formation of class
numbers of documents. The schedule contains main classes and their divisions. Various
instructions are provided in the schedules to build appropriate class numbers.

3.6.2.1 Tables
Tables are found in the first volume of DDC. The tables are explained with the worked out
examples given below:
i. Table 1: Standard Subdivisions
Table 1 is of Standard Subdivisions. The hyphen (-) preceding each number indicates
that it never stands alone. The hyphen (-) is omitted when you add a specific number
from Table 1 to the base number from the schedule. The numbers from this
subdivision are added directly to the base number from the schedule.
Example:
Title: History of Philosophy
Analysis:
100 - Philosophy (from schedule)
-09 (Table 1) – History
Synthesis
100 + - 09
1 + - 09 = 109
Class Number: 109

68
 Library and
Information
Science

ii. Table 2: Area

Table 2 includes areas, regions, places in general (-1), which include physiographical
features, population clusters, political and economic groups. “Add to” instruction is
used at several places in the tables and schedules for the use of area subdivisions from
Table 2 to the base number.
Example:
Title: Elementary education in India
Analysis:
372 Elementary education (from schedule)
372.91-99 Geographical treatment
(Add “Areas” notation 1-9 from Table 2 to base number
372.9)
(from schedule)
-54 India (from Table 2)
Synthesis:
372.9 + - 54 = 372.954
Class Number: 372.954
Add 09 from Table 1 to add area from Table 2, if Geographical treatment (i.e., add
'Area' instruction) instruction is not given in the schedule of the base number.
Example:
Title: Buddhist religion sects and reform moments in Japan
Analysis:
294.39 Buddhist sects and reform movement
(from schedule)
-09 Historical and geographical treatment (from Table 1)
-52 Japan (from Table 2)
Synthesis:
294.39 + -09 + - 52 = 294.390 952
Class Number: 294.390 952

iii. Table 3: Subdivisions of Individual Literature

The notation from Table 3 is never used alone but may be used as required with the
base number for individual literature identified by *under 810-890(schedule). Table 3
is supplemented by Table 3A which provides additional elements for building
numbers with Table 3.

69
Library and
Information
Science

Example:
Title : Idealism in English Poetry
Analysis:
820 English Literature (from schedule)
-1 Poetry (from table 3)
- 13 Idealism (from table 3A)
Synthesis:
Dropped
820 + -1 +13
82 + -1 +13 = 821.13
Class Number: 821.13
iv. Table 4: Subdivisions of Individual Languages
Table 4 subdivisions of individual languages is never used as required with the base
numbers for individual languages identified by * asterisk under 420-490 in the
schedule.
Example:
Title: French Grammar
Analysis:
440 = French Language
(from schedule)
-5 = Grammar (Table 4)
Synthesis:
Dropped
440 + -5
44 + -5 = 445
Class number: 445
v. Table 5: Racial, Ethnic, National Groups
The nation in this table is never used alone but may be used as required either directly
or with “Add to” instruction or through the interposition of notation – 089 from Table
1, with any number from schedule
Example:
Title: Japanese Cooking

70
 Library and
Information
Science

Analysis:
641.592 = Ethnic Cooking
(from schedule)
(Add “Racial, Ethnic, National Groups” notation
03 - 99 from
Table 5 to base number 641.592)
- 956 = Japanese (Table 5)
Synthesis:
641.592 + - 956 = 641.592 956
Class Number: 641.592 956
vi. Table 6: Language
The names of languages are never used alone, but may be used with the numbers
from the classifier from Table 6. The use of this table is mostly in relation to the main
classes, 400 language and 800 literature.
Example:
Title: Social Status of Nepali's
Analysis:
305.7 = Social status of language groups
(Add “languages” notation 1-9 from table 6 to base
number 305.7)
(from schedule)
-9149 = Nepali (Table -6)
Synthesis:
305.7 + -9149 = 305.791 49
Class Number: 305.791 49
vii. Table 7: Persons
The notation from Table 7 persons is never used alone, but may be used as required
with any appropriate number from the schedules with “Add to” instruction or
through interposition of notation - 024 from Table 1.
Example:
Title: Psychology books for teachers
Analysis:
150 = Psychology (from schedule)

71
Library and
Information
Science

- 024 = Works for specific types of users (from table 1)

(Add “persons” notations 03-99 from table 7 to the
base number -024)
-372 = Teacher (from table 7)
Synthesis:
150 + -024 + - 372
15 + -024 + -372 = 150.243 72
Class Number: 150.243.72
nd
3.6.2.2 Schedules (2 Volume of DDC)
It contains Main Classes and their divisions.
i. Generalities 000
The schedule of this main class deals with disciplines/subjects such as bibliography
010, library & information science 020, museology 060, Journalism, Publishing
Newspapers 070, Books rarities 090, etc.
Example:
Title: Classification of Botany
Analysis:
025.46 = Classification of specific disciplines and subjects
(from schedule)
(Add 001-999 to base number 025.46)
581 = Botany (from schedule)
Synthesis:
025.46 + 581 = 025.465 81
Class Number: 025.465 81
ii. Philosophy and Related Discipline 100
The schedule of this main class deals with disciplines/subjects such as philosophy
and psychology. The other subjects are Metaphysics, Epistemology, Logic, Ethics, etc.
Example:
Title: Hindu Philosophy
Analysis:
181 = Oriental Philosophy
(from schedule)

72
 Library and
Information
Science

181.04 - .09 = Based on specific religions

(from schedule)
(Add to base number 181.04 the number following
29 is 294 -299)
294.5 = Hinduism
(from schedule)
Synthesis:
181.0 + 294.5
181.0 + 4.5 = 181.045
Class Number: 181.045
iii. Religion 200
The main class Religion is mostly devoted to Christianity (i.e., from 210 -289). Other
major religions of the world are listed at 292 – 299.
Example:
Title: Hindu Religions Group
Analysis:
294.5 = Hinduism
294.56 - .57 = Leader organisations, activities
(Add to base number 294.5 the number following
291 is 291.6 - 291.7)
(from schedule)
291.61 = Religions Group
Synthesis:
294.5 + 291.61
294.5 + - . 61 = 294.561
Class Number: 294 .561

iv. Social Sciences 300

The schedule of this main class deals with all the important disciplines in the social
sciences. Some of the disciplines such as psychology, history and geography are listed
under 150 and 900. At several places in the schedule for social sciences, there are
special tables. The notation from these tables is to be applied to the divisions
identified by an asterisk.

73
Library and
Information
Science

Example:
Title: Election law of India
Analysis:
342 = Constitutional and administrative law
342 .3 - .9 = specific jurisdictions and area
(Add “Area” natation 3 – 9 from table 2 to base
number 342)
(from schedule)
-54 = India (from table 2)
342.07 = Election Law
Synthesis:
342 + -54 + 342.07
342 + -54 + 07 = 342.540 7

Example:
Title: Admission Procedure in elementary schools
Analysis:
372 = Elementary education
372.11 -. 18 = Organization and Administration
(Add to base number 372.1 the number following
371 in 371.1 – 371.8)
371.216 = Admission Procedure
(from schedule)
Synthesis:
372.1 + 371.216
372.1 + .216 = 372.121 6

v. Language 400
The schedule of this main class includes important languages of the world. Various
aspects of languages such as etymology, dictionaries, structural system, etc. are
linked under Table 4 subdivisions of individual languages. Individual languages
identified by an (*) asterisk in the schedules are linked under 420 – 490. They are
further expanded by taking notation from Table 4.

74
 Library and
Information
Science

Example:
Title: English – Telugu Dictionary
Analysis:
420 = English Language
(from schedule)
- 32 to – 39 bilingual dictionaries
(Add “language” notation 2-9 from Table 6 to -3)
(from Table 4)
-94827 = Telugu (from Table 6)
Synthesis:
420 + -3 + - 94827
42 + - 3 + - 94827 = 423.948 27
Class Number: 423.948 27

vi. Pure Sciences 500

The schedule of this main class covers different branches of pure sciences such as
Mathematics, Astrology, Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Biology, Botany and Zoology.
Special tables are also provided at certain places to achieve a synthesis for number
building.
Example:
Title: Pathology of rose Plants
Analysis:
583.372 = * Roses
(Add to instructed under 582 -589)
04 = General Principles
(listed under 582 – 589)
(Add to 04 the number following 581 in 581.1 – 581.8)
581.2 = Pathology
Synthesis:
583.372 + 04 + 581.2
583.372 + 04 + 2 = 583.372 042
Class Number: 583.372 042

75
Library and
Information
Science

vii. Technology (Applied Science) 600

The schedule of this main class covers important subject fields such as Medical
Sciences, Engineering, Agriculture, Home Economics, Management Chemical
Engineering, Manufacturing and Buildings. Special tables are also available at
different places.

Example:
Title: Treatment of gastric ulcers
Analysis:
6/6.334 = * Gastric ulcers
(Add as instructed under 616.1 -616.9)
06 = therapy (listed under 616.1 – 616.9)
(from schedule)
Synthesis:
616.334 + 06 = 616.334 06
Class Number: 616.334 06

viii. The Arts 700

The schedule of this main class covers important branches of fine arts viz. Civic Art,
Architecture, Plastic Arts, Drawing Arts, Painting, Graphic Arts, Photography, Music
and Recreational Arts. Under each art, different aspects like description, critical
appraisal, techniques, procedures, apparatus equipment's and materials are listed.
The fine arts have been broadly grouped under fine, decorative, literary, performing
and recreational arts.

Example:
Title: Violin concerts and recitals
Analysis:
787.1 = Violin
(Add as instructed under 787 - 789)
(from schedule)
073 = Concerts and recitals
(Listed under 787-789)
Synthesis:
787.1 + 073 = 787.107 3

76
 Library and
Information
Science

ix. Literature 800

The schedule of this main class includes literature of the word including literary
forms such as poetry, drama, fiction, essays etc. The basic arrangement is first by
language followed by forms and period. This is supported by Table 3, Table 3A and
Table 6 for specific languages. Indian literature is listed under 891 and 894.
Example:
Title: English Short Stories
Analysis:
820 = English Literature
-301 = Short Stories (Table 3)
Synthesis:
820 + -301
82 + -301 = 823.01
Class Number: 823.01

x. General Geography and History 900

The schedule of this main class includes important subjects such as Geography,
History and Biography. There are also special tables available at few places of
schedules.
Example:
Title: Geography of Brazil
Analysis:
918 = * Geography of south America
(*Add as instructed under 4 – 9 from table 2 to base
number 91)
(from schedule)
- 81 = Brazil
Synthesis:
918 + - 81
91 + - 81 = 918.1
Class Number: 918.1

77
Library and
Information
Science

2.1.7 Summary
In this unit, the concept of library classification, concept of main classes, PMEST, steps to
classify documents and the APUPA pattern have been covered. The five fundamental
categories- PMEST, that is, Personality, Matter, Energy, Space and Time have been
discussed in detail. The Colon Classification (CC) and the Dewey Decimal Classification
(DDC) schemes have also been explained. The various aspects related to classification of
documents have been demonstrated with the help of suitable examples. You have been
introduced to the process of synthesis in the DDC. The given examples have clearly
demonstrated the synthesis for classification of subjects. There are many situations and
provisions in the DDC where you will have to use the “add to” operations more than once
on the same base number. All seven tables and ten main classes (i.e., first summary) have
been explained.

2.1.8 Glossary
APUPA: An arrangement in which subjects are in the sequence: alien, penumbral, umbral,
penumbral, and alien.
Book Number: The Ordinal number, which fixes the position of a document in a library,
relative to the other documents having the same ultimate class.
Call Number: Call number of a book is the symbol used to fix its position relatively to the
other books. It is a combination of classification number and collection number.
Classification: An orderly arrangement of entities in logical division of a subject by means
of trains of characteristics. An artificial language of ordinal numbers designed to
mechanize this arrangement.
Classificationist: One, who designs or devises a scheme of classification.
Classifier: One, who classifies a library book.
Class Number: An ordinal number representing the position of a class in a scheme of
classification.
Collection Number: A symbol denoting any special characteristic (size, physical form, or
class of users etc.) of a group of books, which because of this characteristic must be
separately located.
Facet: One side of something that has many sides. In the context of faceted subject analysis,
a facet is one of the many aspects of a subject.
Facet analysis: Examination of the various aspects of a subject to identify the basic
characteristics by which it can be divided into sub-classes, the first step in developing a
faceted classification system.

78
 Library and
Information
Science

Main Class: A fairly homogeneous region of the universe of knowledge given by scheme of
classification as a focus in its first order array of the universe of knowledge.
PMEST: The five main facets in S.R. Ranganathan's Colon Classification: Personality, Matter,
Energy, Space and Time.
Wall Picture Principle: If two facets A and B of a subject are such that the concept behind B
will not be operative unless the concept behind A is conceded, even as a mural picture is not
possible unless the wall exists to draw upon, then the facet A should precede the facet B.

2.1.9 Exercise
Short Answer Questions
1. What is Library Classification?
2. Define 'Main Class' according to Dr. S R Ranganathan.
3. What are facets and isolates in the context of library classification?
4. What is PMEST?
5. Which are the three groups of the fundamental category 'Matter'.
6. Describe in brief the fundamental category 'Personality'.
7. What is the importance of APUPA pattern in library classification?
th
8. In how many parts is the 6 edition of the Colon Classification divided?
9. List the main classes in DDC.
10. Name all the volumes of the 19th edition of DDC.

Long Answer Questions

1. Explain the concept of main class and its facets.
2. Explain the fundamental categories in library classification.
3. Explain the APUPA Pattern?
4. Discuss the steps to be followed for classification of documents?
5. What are the different tasks that have to be performed while classifying documents?
6. Describe briefly the Colon Classification, 6th edition.
7. Give a brief account of the Structure of DDC (19th edition).
8. Explain the role of tables in the DDC.

79
Library and
Information
Science

Module-2 Organization of Library Resources: Advanced

Unit-2: Library Cataloguing

After studying this section, students will be able to
2
Explain the concept of Cataloguing
2
Enumerate the methods of Cataloguing
2
Explain the process of Cataloguing
2
Demonstrate the MARC 21
2
Learn the process of Cataloguing through AACR II and MARC 21

Contents
2.2.1 Introduction
2.2.2 Cataloguing Rules
2.2.2.1 Need
2.2.2.2 ISBD
2.2.2.3 AACR-2
2.2.2.4 MARC 21
2.2.3 Cataloguing Format
2.2.3.1 AACR- 2
2.2.3.2 MARC 21
2.2.4 Summary
2.2.5 Glossary
2.2.6 Exercise

2.2.1 Introduction
Cataloguing is the process by which we create and maintain the database of books, journals,
audio-visual materials, etc. that are owned by a library. Cataloguing is also an art of making
or maintaining library holdings. It involves careful examination of different details of
documents being catalogued and to record, describe and index it in a systematic manner. It
is equally important to arrange, maintain and present the catalogue in a uniform manner.
These are the spheres of activities that come under the operation that is called cataloguing.
The information contained in the library catalogue provides many access points needed for
the library users, who are looking for specific documents in the library. Traditionally, the

80
 Library and
Information
Science

library card catalogue provided access by the author's name, the title of a document, and
the subject(s) covered in the item. Other points of access were additional authors, names of
series, illustrators, and sometimes the titles of contents. Presently, computer catalogues can
provide access to any part of the information contained in the record for a document in the
library. This unit will discuss AACR-2 and MARC 21, the two, widely used cataloguing
method for making the catalogue entries.

2.2.2 Cataloguing Rules

Cataloguing rules is a set of instructions for determining the information requirements of a
library catalogue. These rules have gone through many changes over time, but the basic
function of cataloguing rules is to answer the following questions:
2
Which information from a bibliographic item is to be included in the entry?
2
How is this information to be presented on a catalogue entry or in a cataloguing record?
2
How should the entries should be sorted in the catalogue?

2.2.2.1 Need
Library catalogue is a tool that provides a better accessibility of library holdings. An
efficient catalogue is almost like a key to the documents of the library. It helps users and
support-staff to locate a document within a minimum time. The better the access, the more
use the collection receives, and the more satisfied the user is in his or her search for
information in the library.

2.2.2.2 ISBD
For a larger collection, more elaborate cataloguing rules are required. Users do not want to
examine hundreds of catalogue entries or dozens of library items to find a single library
holding. Currently, most cataloging rules are similar to, or even based on, the International
Standard Bibliographic Description (ISBD), a set of rules produced by the International
Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) to describe a wide range of
library materials. IFLA's ISBD Review Group is responsible for maintaining the ISBD. It
helps to create a bibliographic description in a standard, human-readable form, especially
for use in a bibliography or a library catalogue. The chief purpose of the ISBD is to provide a
standard form of bibliographic description that could be used to exchange records
internationally. These rules organize the bibliographic description of an item in the
following areas:
1) Title and statement of responsibility (author or editor)
2) Edition
3) Material specific details (for example, the scale of a map)

81
Library and
Information
Science

4) Publication and distribution

5) Physical description (for example, number of pages)
6) Series
7) Notes, and
8) Standard Number (ISBN)
Each book, while, being enlisted in the catalogue has to be described individually. This
description is called a record of the document. An entry is a single record of a document.
Entries are prepared by different cataloguing Rules/Methods/Codes. Two methods used
by most of the libraries in the world are:
2
AACR-2
2
MARC 21
The most commonly used set of cataloguing rules in the English speaking world are the
Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, 2nd Edition, or AACR-2 for short.
2.2.2.3 AACR-2
The Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules prepared by the American Library Association, the
British Library, the Canadian Committee on Cataloguing, the Library Association and the
Library of Congress. AACR was published for the first time in 1967. In 1978, the second edition
was published as AACR-2 which was again revised in 1988 and is known as AACR-2R.
AACR-2 provides three levels of description for different areas for a document depending
upon the nature and size of the library. According to the needs of a particular document or
library, the different levels of description can be used. The first level provides the minimum
information which is necessary to identify a given document. The second level provides all
the data which may be considered necessary for description of documents forming part of
the main collection of medium to large libraries in the context of libraries in developed
countries. The third level provides information covering every descriptive element
described in the AACR Code.
The three level of description are as follows:

First Level of Description

Minimum elements are taken for the first level of description. The general rules 1.1B, 1.1F,
1.2B, 1.3, 1.4D, 1.4F, 1.5B, 1.7 and 1.8B of AACR-2 may be used for this purpose. The
following specification may be given under the first level of description:
Title proper/first statement of responsibility, if different from main entry heading in form
or number or if there is no main entry heading. - Edition statement. – Material (or type of
publication) specific details. - First place of Publication: First Publisher, etc., date of
Publication, etc. - Extent of item. – Note(s).-Standard number.

82
 Library and
Information
Science

Second Level of Description

nd
The elements covered in the 2 level of description are as follows:
Title proper [GMD]=parallel title: other title information/first statement of responsibility. -
Edition statement/first statement of responsibility relating to the edition. – Material (or
type of Publication) specific details. - First place of Publication, etc.: first Publisher, etc.,
Date of Publication, etc. - Extent of item: other physical details: dimensions. - (title proper of
series/statement of responsibility relating to series, ISSN of series: numbering within the
series. Title of sub-series, ISSN of sub-series; numbering within sub-series). –Note(s). -
Standard number.

Third Level of Description

Third level includes every possible element given in the rules that can be used in the
cataloguing through AACR-2.

Position for Different Element in the Entry

The following rules for positions for the different elements in the catalogue entry should be
observed:
1) Call Number containing Class Number, Book Number and Collection Number, if
any, may be written on the upper left corner of the entry. Class Number will be written
th
on the 4 line from the top of the card and from the left edge of the card. Book Number
will be written just a line below of the Class Number. If the Class Number consists of
rd
more than 8 digits, it will be written on the 3 line from the top of the card and may
continue beyond the first and second indention.
2) The head line will be used for either 1st Author or Title chosen for main entry. It will
start from 1st indention and continue from the third imaginary indention. But when
the book is entered under title, it begins from the first indention and continues from
the 2nd indention. This type of transcription of the entry is known as hanging
indention.
nd
3) The title will start from the 2 indention, on a line below the head line and continue
st
from the 1 indention.
4) The title and statement of responsibility area, the edition area, the material or type of
publication, specific details area, and the publication, distribution, etc. area will form
a single paragraph.
nd
5) The physical description area will start from the 2 indention and continue from the
st
1 indention. It will include the series area also. Both these elements will form a
separate paragraph.

83
Library and
Information
Science

6) The note area will start from the 2nd indention and continue from 1st indention. If there
is more than one note, those may be given in separate paragraph.

2.2.2.4 MARC 21
MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) standards are a set of digital formats for the
description of items catalogued by libraries (such as books). It was developed by the US
Library of Congress during the 1960s to create records that could be used by computers,
and to share those records among libraries. By 1971, MARC formats had become the
national standard for dissemination of bibliographic data in the United States, and the
international standard by 1973. There are several versions of MARC in use around the
world, the most predominant being MARC 21, created in 1999 as a result of the
harmonization of U.S. and Canadian MARC formats, and UNIMARC, widely used in
Europe. The MARC 21 family of standards now includes formats for authority records,
holdings records, classification schedules, and community information, in addition to the
format for bibliographic records.
MARC 21 Format for Bibliographic Data is designed to be a carrier for bibliographic
information about printed and manuscript textual materials, computer files, maps, music,
continuing resources, visual materials, and mixed materials. Bibliographic data commonly
includes titles, names, subjects, notes, publication data, and information about the physical
description of an item. As its name suggests the format aims to meet the challenge of the 21st
century.
A MARC record involves three elements: the record structure, the content designation, and
the data content of the record. These are described below:
Record Structure: The structure of MARC records is an implementation of national and
international standards, e.g., Information interchange format (ANSI Z39.2) and format for
information exchange (ISO 2709).
Content Designation: Content designation, the codes and conventions established to
identify explicitly and characterize further the data elements within a record and to
support the manipulation of those data, is defined in the MARC 21 formats.
Data Content: The content of most data elements is defined by standards outside the
formats, e.g., Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, Library of Congress Subject Heading,
and National Library of Medicine Classification.
A MARC 21 format is a set of codes and content designators defined for encoding machine-
readable records. Formats are defined for five types of data: bibliographic, holdings,
authority, classification, and community information.
Bibliographic Data Format: It contains format for encoding data elements needed to
describe, retrieve and control various forms of bibliographic material. It is defined for
books, serials, computer files, maps, music, visual materials and mixed material.

84
 Library and
Information
Science

Bibliographic format blocks

0xx=Control information, numbers, codes
1xx= Main entry
2xx= Title, edition, imprint
3xx= Physical description, etc.
4xx= Series statements
5xx= Notes
6xx= Subject access fields
7xx= Name, etc. added entries or series
8xx= Series added entries; holding and locations
9xx= Reserved for local implementation
Holding Data Format: It contains format specification for encoding data elements
pertinent to holding and location data for all forms of material.
Holding format block
0xx= Control information, numbers, codes
1xx= Not defined
2xx= Not defined
3xx= Not defined
4xx= Not defined
5xx= Notes
6xx= Not defined
7xx= Not defined
8xx= Holdings and location data, notes
9xx= Reserved for local implementation.
Authority Data format: It contains format specification for encoding data elements that
identify or control the content related to authority control.
Authority format blocks
0xx= Control information, numbers, codes
1xx= Heading
2xx= Complex see references
3xx= Complex see also references
4xx= See from tracing

85
Library and
Information
Science

5xx= See also from tracing

6xx= Reference notes, treatment, notes, etc.
7xx= Heading linking entries
8xx= Not defined
9xx= Reserved for local implementation
Classification Data format: It contains format specification for encoding data elements
related to classification numbers and caption associated with them.
Classification format blocks
0xx= Control information, numbers, codes
1xx= Classification numbers and terms
2xx= Complex see references
3xx= Complex see also references
4xx= Invalid number tracing
5xx= Valid number tracin
6xx= Notes
7xx= Index terms and number building fields
8xx= Miscellaneous
9xx= Reserved for local implementation
Community Information Format: It provides format specification for records containing
information about events, programs, services, etc. so that this information can be
integrated into other public access catalogues as data in other record types.
Community information format blocks
0xx= Control information, Numbers, Codes
1xx= Primary names
2xx= Titles, Addresses
3xx= Physical information, etc.
4xx= Series information
5xx= Notes
6xx= Subject access fields
7xx= Added entries other than subject
8xx= Miscellaneous
9xx= Reserved for local implementation

86
 Library and
Information
Science

Organization of the Record

A MARC record consists of three main sections: the leader, the directory and the variable
fields.
The Leader
It consists of data elements containing coded information and it is identified by relative
character position. The leader is fixed in length in a string of 24 characters, 00 to 23. It occurs
in the beginning of each MARC record.
The Directory
It contains the tag, starting location, and length of each field within the record. It serves as
road map of the data contents area. Directory information is dynamically gathered and
stored in a place between the Leader and the Data contents sections. The Directory is
generated programmatically by computer for locating data fields with the help of their
address, which is a string of 12 numeric characters. The size of directory area varies
depending on the number of times the address repeats in the directory. The directory ends
with a field terminator character.
Variable fields/Data Content
The data content of a record is divided into variable fields. MARC 21 format describe two
types of variable fields, viz. variable control fields and variable data fields. Control and
data fields are distinguished only by structure. The data fields are separated by the field
terminator which is a pre-determined special character such #, @, etc. The data content
resides in the final section of a Record, and ends with the Record Terminator.
Variable fields and Tags
2
The data in a MARC record is organized into fields, each identified by a three –
character tag.
2
The MARC 21 formats use only numeric tags.
2
The tag is stored in the directory entry for the field, not in the field itself
2
Variable fields are grouped into blocks or according to the first character of the tag,
which identifies the function of the data within a record, e.g., main entry, added entry,
subject entry. The type of information in the field, e.g., personal name, corporate
name, or title, is identified by the remainder of the tag.
Variable control field
2
The 00x field in the MARC 21 formats are variable control field.
2
It consists of data and field terminator. It does not contain indicators and sub-field
codes.

87
Library and
Information
Science

2
It contains either a single data element or a series of fixed-length data elements
identified by relative character position.
Variable data field
2
All fields except 00x are variable data fields.
2
Following four levels of content designation are provided for variable data fields in
ANSI Z39.2:
• A three character tag, stored in directory entry
• Indicators stored in the beginning of each variable data field
• Sub-field codes preceding each data element
• A field terminator following the last data element in the field

2.2.3 Format of AACR-2 and MARC 21

2.2.3.1 Format of AACR -2
A library catalogue is a useful search tool for the effective use of a library. A library
catalogue can just meet any one type of user approach like author approach, title approach,
etc. Format provides the output in an internationally standard acceptable manner.
Catalogue card of a standard size 12.5 cm x 7.5 cm, is one of a physical forms of catalogue.

1st Indention 2st Indention Main Line

025.00285
Lancaster, F W
LAN
Technology and management in library and
information services/
F.W. Lancaster and Beth Sandore. – Urbana
Champaign: University of Illinois, 1997.

43216 322p.; 24 cm.

ISBN 087-8450-9981
1. Library Services. 2. Library Science. I. Sandore,
Beth. II. Title

Puncj hole

Fig 2.2.1: Catalogue Card (12.5cm x 7.5 cm)

88
 Library and
Information
Science

The indention lines are drawn mainly to maintain clarity and to distinguish one line from
another line while recording the details of a document in the form of a catalogue entry. Each
paragraph starts from 2nd indention and continues from 1st indention in the description. The
heading section/ leading section starts from 1st indention and continues from 2nd indention.
AACR– 2 R never prescribes any indentions in the form of rules in the code except as a
suggestion.
The structure of a main entry with the eight parts and the paragraph and elements there in is
described as under:
I. Heading
A) Author or other person or Corporate Body chosen as main entry.
B) Title, if (A) can be ascribed
II. Body of the Entry (First paragraph)
A) Title and Statement of responsibility area
(i) Title proper (including alternative title, if any)
(ii) General Material Designation (GMD)
(iii) Parallel title(s) other title information, if any
(iv) Statement(s) of responsibility
B) Edition area
(i) Edition statement (named, numbered or a combination of both)
(ii) Statement of responsibility relating to the edition, but not to all editions
C) Material (or type of publication) specific details area
(i) For Cartographic materials, statements of scale and projection
(ii) For Serial Publication, numerical and/ or alphabetical designation
D) Publication, distribution, etc. area
(i) Place of Publication, distribution, etc.
(ii) Name of Publisher, distributor, etc.
(iii) Statement of function of publisher, distributor, etc. (e.g., production
company)
(iv) Date of publication, distribution, etc. including copyright date
(v) Place of manufacture, name of manufacturers, date of manufacture, if
name of publisher is unknown.

89
Library and
Information
Science

III. Physical Description Area (Second Paragraph)

(i) Extent of item (e.g., number of pages, volumes, etc.)
(ii) Other Physical details (e. g., playing speed, etc.)
(iii) Dimension (e.g., height diameter)
(iv) Accompanying materials (e.g., teacher's guide)
IV. Series Area, if any (following physical description area as continuation of second
Paragraph)
(i) Title proper of series, parallel title (s), and other title information
(ii) Statement (s) of responsibility relating to series
(iii) ISSN of series
(iv) Numbering within series
(v) Sub-series
(vi) Second and following series, each in its own set of parentheses
V. Note area (each note is a separate paragraph)
Necessary data that cannot be incorporated in the section.
VI Standard Number and Terms of Availability Area (Paragraph following last note)
(i) Standard number (e.g., ISBN, ISSN)
(ii) Key – title of a serial
(iii) Terms of availability (e.g., price)
VII. Tracing (Separate paragraph)
(i) Subject Heading
(ii) Added entries for joint authors, editors, etc.
(iii) Title added entry or entries
(iv) Series added entry or entries.
VIII. Call Number (formatted in upper left corner of entry or on line following tracing.)
(i) Classification number
(ii) Cutter Number and work mark, if any
IX. Accession Number can also be included as part of the main entry
The place of above parts in a catalogue card is shown below.

90
 Library and
Information
Science

Call Number
Heading Section (I)
(VIII)

Body of The Entry (II)

Physical Description (III)
Acc. No. (IX) (Series) (IV)
Notes Area (V)
ISBN (VI)
Tracing (VII)

Fig 2.2.2: Catalogue card

Outline for a main entry and an added entry for a dictionary catalogue according to
AACR – 2

Main Entry
Call No. Heading

Title proper (GMD).= Parallel title: Other

title / statement of responsibility. –Edition
/ Statement of responsibility relating to
edition. - Place of publication, distribution:
Acc. No. Publisher, date of publication.
Extent of item: other physical details:
dimensions + accompanying Material –
(series; number).
Notes.
ISBN.
1. Subject heading. 2. Subject heading.
I Added Entry II Added Entry III Title IV
Series

Fig 2.2.3: Catalogue card

If the main line is not sufficient to record this information, the main entry will
continue in the heading after leaving two letter spaces from the second indention.
This imaginary line which is 16 spaces from left margin of the card is known as third
indention. In the tracing section, in between the items numbered in Arabic numerals
and in Roman numerals two letter spaces are to be left.

91
Library and
Information
Science

Outline of Added Entry – Unit Card Method.

Main Entry Added entry

Call No. Heading (Second line added entry, if necessary)

Title…/Statement…. - Edition …
/Statement …. – Place…: Publisher, date of
Publication.
Acc. No. Extent of item ….-(series; number).
Notes.
ISBN.
Subject heading……

Fig 2.2.4: Catalogue card

When the main entry is under the title of the work as per rule, the outline entry is as
follow:

Call No.

Title ……. /Statement of responsibility.

–edition…. - place of Publication:
publisher, date.
Extent… .- (Series; no.).
Notes
ISBN
Subject heading. 2….. I….

Fig 2.2.5: Catalogue card

st
The title statement starts from the 1 indention of the main line and continues from the
nd
2 indention, till the completion of the body of the entry. From the second line
onwards the body of the entry 'hangs on' to the second indention. This type of
indention is known as 'hanging indention'.

2.2.3.2 MARC 21 Format

MARC Format involves the logical record structure, the content designation and the data
content. Content designators, field tag, Indicator 1 and 2, and sub-field code, all contribute
to a computer's performance in reading the content of a bibliographic record meaningfully.
Field Tag: The Field Tag is a three digit code meant for a particular type of data. For
example, Tag 100 stands for main author.

92
 Library and
Information
Science

Indicators: There are two Indicators, viz. Indicator 1 and Indicator 2. These provide some
supplementary information about the field content. Each indicator holds single - character
code. The code may be a numeric or a lowercase alphabetic character or a blank space. Use
of a blank (#) indicator is inconsistent.
Subfield Code: It identifies data elements within a field for enabling the computer to
manipulate each one separately. It is composed of a sub-field delimiter and a Data Element
identifier. A delimiter's function ends with passing a signal to computer predicting the
presence of a Data Element Identifier, while Data Element Identifier is a Code.
Example

245 Title Statement NR

$a Title Proper/Short title NR
$b Remainder of title NR
$f Designation of Vol./Issue and/or date NR
$h Medium NR
$6 Linkage

Examples of sub-field codes with Dollar Sign as subfield delimiter.

Variable Control Fields
The first block of fields is made under tag 00X that, contains Variable Control Fields, e.g.,
001 is control number.
Variable Data Field
All fields except 00X are variable data fields. These fields consist of indicators, one or more
sub-field codes, Variable data and a field terminator. The primary groupings of variable
fields are as follows:
0XX = Control information, numbers, Codes
1XX = Main entry
2XX = Titles, edition, imprint
3XX = Physical description, etc.
4XX = Series Statements
5XX = Notes
6XX = Subject access fields
7XX = Name, etc. added entries or series, linking
8XX = Series added entries; holding and location
9XX = Reserved for local implementation

93
Library and
Information
Science

All fields are not required by every library. Therefore, a policy may be formed to
concentrate on a set of relevant fields, indicators, subfields. The minimum required fields
for book cataloguing may look something like the following:
020 ISBN
040 Cataloguing Source
09X Local call number
100 Personal Name – Main entry
110 Corporate Name – Main Entry
130 Uniform Title – Main entry
240 Uniform Title
245 Title of the work
246 Varying form of title
250 Edition Statement
260 Imprint, Publication, Distribution
300 Physical Description
440 Series Statement/Series Title Added entry
500 General Note
504 Bibliographic Note
505 Formatted contents Note
520 Summary Note (abstracts, etc.)
59X Local Notes
600 Subject Added entry – Personal
630 Subject Added Entry - Uniform Title
650 Subject Added Entry – Topical
651 Subject Added Entry – Geographic
69X Local Subject Access field
700 Personal Names – Addition Access Point
710 Corporate Name – Addition Access Point
730 Uniform Title – Addition Access Point
9XX Local data Elements

Example: (1)
010 91-12500/Ac
020 0452010616: # C $ 9.95 ($12.99 cm)
082 00822.33

94
 Library and
Information
Science

100 1 Westall, Robert

245 14 The kingdom by the sea/ #c [by] Robert west all
st
250 1 American ed.
260 New York: # b Farrar Straus Giroux, # c 1992, e 1990
300 175P; # c 21cm
520 During World War II, twelve year old Harry and a stray dog travel through
war-torn England in search of safety
650 1 World war, 1939-1945 # Z England # v Fiction
650 1 Dogs # V fiction

2.2.4 Summary
This unit has discussed the concept, methods and process of library cataloguing. The
cataloguing rules covered in this unit are similar to, or based on, the International Standard
Bibliographic Description (ISBD). The two types of cataloguing rules, viz. AACR-2 and
MARC 21 have been dealt in detail. It also discusses three levels of description of a
document through AACR 2. An outline of the main entry and an added entry is also
described.
MARC21 format has been discussed in detail. MARC stands for Machine Readable
Cataloguing. MARC comprises a detailed scheme or a pattern for allocation of all
bibliographic and allied elements, for example, title, author, language, etc. in an electronic
file. It serves as a system of bibliographic information interchange, that is, for importing one
or many records from another MARC compliant online catalogue located anywhere in the
world, or exporting records to other on demand.

2.2.5 Glossary
AACR -2: Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules
Accession Number: The number given to a book from the Accession Register. It may also
be a number given to an article in a periodical, or other documents which are indexed by the
uniterm concept co-ordination system.
Author: The term used for the writer of a book, as distinguished from the translator, editor,
etc.
Catalogue Card: A plain or ruled card which is generally of standard size 5x3 inch. It is used
for making a single entry or reference in a card catalogue.
Catalogue Code: A set of rules for guidance of cataloguers in preparing entries for
catalogues so as to ensure uniformity in treatment.

95
Library and
Information
Science

Cataloguer: Refers to a library professional, who determines the forms of entry and
prepares the bibliographical descriptions for a catalogue, and in many libraries classifies
the books and provides subject heading
IFLA: International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
Indention: Refers to the distance from the left edge of a catalogue card at which the various
parts of the entry begin. The purpose of indention is to differentiate and emphasize the
various groups of information.
ISBN: International Standard Book Number
Main Card: Refers to the catalogue card which indicates the Main Entry.
MARC: Machine Readable Cataloguing
Tracing: Refers to the indication on the front or back of a main entry catalogue card which
indicates the additional headings under which added entries appear.

2.2.6 Exercise
Short Answer Questions
1. What is the need of having cataloguing rules?
2. Enumerate the eight areas of bibliographic description according to ISBD.
3. Describe the second level of description in AACR-2.
4. List the items in structure of a main entry in AACR-2.
5. Explain briefly the importance of MARC 21 Format for Bibliographic Data.
6. What are the rules for positions for the different elements in the catalogue entry in
AACR-2?
7. Explain the term 'Hanging Indention'.
8. Draw the outlines of an added entry in Unit Card System.
9. Give an example of Subfield code in MARC 21.
Long Answer Questions
1. Discuss the role of ISBD in library cataloguing.
2. State the structure of AACR-2.
3. Write schematic illustration of 2nd level of description described in AACR2.
4. Explain the elements that describe a MARC record format.
5. Enumerate and explain different types of data format in MARC 21.
6. Describe the different parts of a main entry of AACR2.

96