Cataloging: Call Numbers for Copy Cataloging
Purpose: When a catalog record downloaded from OCLC contains a valid Library of Congress Call Number, that number is typically kept for local use. However, there are some exceptions.
MARC Fields
When downloading a record from OCLC, accept call numbers from the following MARC fields, in order of priority:
- 050, 1st indicator = [any], 2nd indicator = 0: LC-assigned call number
- 050, 1st indicator = [any], 2nd indicator = 4: LC format call number, assigned by agency other than LC
- 090 (no indicators): LC format call number, assigned locally.
If there are multiple good call number options, check URSUS to see if there is any precedent for a choice of call number for books in a given set or series. If no precedent is found, route the book to Original Cataloging.
If none of these fields are present, or if an 090 call number looks questionable, route the book to Original Cataloging. Note: records with an 055 call number and no 050 or 090 fields should also be routed thusly.
For call numbers with unknown/questionable dates, add a “z” after the date to denote that it is unknown.
Prohibited Classes
The following classification codes are not accepted by the Library. Route items with these call numbers to Original Cataloging for reclassification:
- FC: Canadian History
- PS8000: Canadian Literature
- PZ: Juvenile Belles Lettres (OK to use for Maine Juv titles. Otherwise, we class in PS, etc.
NOTE: Special Collections
Maine Collection items classed as F29 should all be passed to Original Cataloging for review. (See Special Collections: City and Town Materials, Maine for more information.)
University Collection: Materials produced by UMaine departments, offices, etc. require special classification. Route such materials to Original Cataloging. (See University Publications for details.)