![ Each heading in LCSH represents only one topic
If a term could represent more than one
concept, it is modified:
Rings (Algebra) Stilts
Rings (Gymnastics) Stilts (Birds)
Or, a [heading]—[subdivision] combination is
created to provide context
Roads $x Shoulders
not Shoulders (Roads)](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/subjectanalysissubjectheadingprinciples-121023033129-phpapp01/85/Subject-analysis-subject-heading-principles-7-320.jpg)
Subject analysis, subject heading principles
- 2. Literary warrant Exhaustivity and Subject Depth Uniform heading Unique heading Specific entry Consistency Dynamism Precoordination and postcoordination
- 3. Subject headings are created for use in cataloging and reflect the topics covered in a given collection The terminology selected to formulate individual subject headings reflects the terminology used in current literature
- 4. Exhaustivity: number of concepts represented in a bibliographic record ◦ To what extent do the subject headings reflect the subject matter of a work? Subject (or indexing) depth: number of headings assigned to a work Interlinked concepts ◦ Can be considered the breadth and depth of subject indexing Affect retrieval
- 5. One heading is chosen to represent a topic This allows materials about a topic to be retrieved together, even if they contain different terms for the topic References to headings are made from synonyms and variant forms Catalog users are guided from their entry vocabulary to the authorized headings
- 6. Choice among terms: based on standard, contemporary American English- language usage preference given to terms in general use over technical terms or jargon where possible Vocabulary: attempts are made to choose neutral, inclusive, or unbiased terminology, especially regarding topics that might be controversial
- 7. Each heading in LCSH represents only one topic If a term could represent more than one concept, it is modified: Rings (Algebra) Stilts Rings (Gymnastics) Stilts (Birds) Or, a [heading]—[subdivision] combination is created to provide context Roads $x Shoulders not Shoulders (Roads)
- 8. In cases where a deliberate decision is made to allow a heading to represent more than one concept, a scope note is generally provided. For example: Letter writing Scope note: Here are entered general works and works on English letter writing.
- 9. Terms are co-extensive with subjects In other words, each subject is represented by the most precise term naming the subject, rather than a broader or generic term that encompasses it
- 10. For a work on Colombian drama, use: Colombian drama not Colombian literature not Drama For a work on semi-professional baseball, use: Semi-professional baseball not Baseball not Ball games
- 11. Some terms may be deemed too narrow, and therefore not likely to be sought by catalog users Example: Bait fishing is an authorized heading in LCSH Worm fishing is a specific type of bait fishing, but the heading Bait fishing is used to represent it
- 12. Attempts are made to maintain consistency in form and structure among similar headings Because LCSH was developed over the past century, it contains numerous inconsistencies in styles of headings Individual headings, unless they have been revised, reflect the prevailing philosophy in force at the time they were created
- 13. Consistency in the form and structure of headings promotes predictability for subject heading users Predictability is enhanced when the terms chosen for a topic are those most widely used to refer to that topic When headings are changed or new headings established, headings in bibliographic records need to be updated
- 14. Changes to headings are made continuously to maintain the currency and viability of LCSH The benefit of making a change is weighed against its impact on the authority and bibliographic databases and the resources needed to carry it out
- 15. Handicapped People with disabilities Internet (Computer network) Internet Machine-readable dictionaries Electronic dictionaries Medicine, State National health services
- 16. Precoordination: ◦ Combining elements into one heading string in anticipation of a search on that compound topic ◦ LCSH is primarily a precoordinate system Example: Furniture design—France—History—20th century— Exhibitions.
- 17. Postcoordination: ◦ Combining of headings or keywords by a searcher at the time he/she looks for materials ◦ Many complex or multi-element topics require postcoordination in LCSH Example: for a work on the architecture of Roman public baths in Great Britain: ◦ Baths, Roman—Great Britain ◦ Architecture, Roman—Great Britain ◦ Great Britain—Antiquities, Roman
- 18. LC product: Classification Web classificationweb.net Includes: ◦ LC Classification schedules ◦ LCSH ◦ Tutorial (strongly recommended) http://classificationweb.net/tutorial/