Copy Cataloging Standards (LTS Procedure #26a)

Scope: This document provides guidelines for LTS Olin staff for the processing of material with copy that is not eligible for fastcat treatment.

Contact:   Laura Daniels

Unit: Cataloging

Date reviewed: March 11, 2026

Date of next review: March 2027

In pursuit of quality control and specifically what information on bibliographic records must be correct, the chart below is a concise guideline.  Patron accessibility and the avoidance of duplication are the primary focus.   

• Fixed fields should be accurate.
• Creator/contributor access points (1xx/7xx): use authorized form if it exists; resolve any conflicts with authorized access points.
• Watch for series statements that are actually multivol. titles.
• Subjects: If subjects are lacking (for non-fiction), inaccurate, or are not authorized terms, this requires original cataloging. 
• Accept other catalogers' decisions and judgement. Unless something is obviously wrong or suspicious, don’t over-think it.  

This chart reflects the fields necessary for patron access and avoidance of duplicate items. Do not delete or change fields that are not incorrect. If in doubt, ask.