Introduction
The Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules, Second Edition, Revised (AACR-2R) is a widely used set of cataloguing rules for library materials. While it is commonly associated with cataloguing books, AACR-2R also provides detailed guidelines for cataloguing non-book materials such as maps, audiovisual resources, electronic resources, and microforms. These rules help maintain uniformity and consistency in the way such materials are organized in a library catalog.
What are Non-Book Materials?
Non-book materials refer to all types of library materials other than traditional printed books. These include:
- Audio materials (e.g., cassette tapes, CDs)
- Visual materials (e.g., slides, photographs, DVDs)
- Cartographic materials (e.g., maps, atlases)
- Microforms (e.g., microfilms, microfiches)
- Electronic resources (e.g., CD-ROMs, e-books, websites)
- Mixed media kits and realia (e.g., models, artifacts)
AACR-2R Rules for Cataloguing Non-Book Materials
AACR-2R follows a general framework for describing materials and also includes specific rules for each type of non-book material. The rules cover various fields like title, statement of responsibility, edition, material description, and more.
1. Chief Source of Information
The chief source of information differs by format. For example:
- For sound recordings: the label on the disc or cassette
- For maps: the title on the face of the map
- For electronic resources: the title screen or homepage
2. Title and Statement of Responsibility Area
This includes the title proper, any alternative titles, and information about the creator or contributors. The title is taken exactly as it appears in the chief source of information, with minor adjustments for clarity.
3. Edition Area
Edition details, such as “Revised edition” or “Second edition,” must be recorded if available. For software, version numbers are often used.
4. Material (or Type of Resource) Specific Details
This section includes format-specific information. Examples:
- For maps: scale, projection, and coordinates
- For sound recordings: type of recording (analog or digital), speed, number of tracks
- For films: format (e.g., 16mm, VHS), color/b&w, sound
5. Physical Description Area
Details about the physical nature of the item are recorded, such as:
- Extent (e.g., 1 cassette, 2 maps)
- Dimensions (e.g., 12 cm, 28 x 30 cm)
- Additional features (e.g., illustrations, color)
6. Series Area
If the item is part of a series, the series title and number are recorded. For example, a documentary DVD might be part of a science education series.
7. Notes Area
This area provides helpful information not included elsewhere. It can include:
- System requirements for electronic resources
- Sound quality notes for audio materials
- Language and subtitles for films
8. Standard Number and Terms of Availability Area
This includes ISBNs (if available), catalog numbers, or publisher codes. Also includes price and other availability details.
Importance of AACR-2R Rules for Non-Book Materials
- Ensures consistency in cataloguing across libraries
- Makes search and retrieval easier for users
- Improves resource sharing and union catalogs
- Supports cataloguing of digital and multimedia collections
Conclusion
The AACR-2R provides a detailed and structured approach to cataloguing non-book materials. By following these rules, libraries can ensure that all types of resources—whether print, audio, visual, or digital—are organized in a way that is user-friendly and professional. This helps both librarians and users to easily locate and access diverse forms of information.