What are some basic principles of subject cataloging?
– The Principle of Specific Entry is fundamental in subject cataloging. The rule is to enter a work directly under the most specific subject heading which accurately represents its content. For example, cataloging a book about “Bridges”, the direct approach is to put it under the heading “Bridges”, not under the larger topic “Engineering”, or even the more restriced field, “Civil engineering”. – Uniformity You must consistently apply one uniform unambiguous term to all works on a particular topic. – The introduction to Sears List of Subject Headings (H.W.Wilson Company – various editions) discusses these principles and much more.
