Classification and shelflisting

General principles for classification and shelflisting follow. In all cases, catalogers should take into account pre-existing call numbers when assigning new ones. Try to follow existing patterns whenever feasible.

Procedures for books

· In copy cataloging, class number in record is usually used
· Occasionally class numbers will need to be assigned, using the Library of Congress M Classification, or rarely some other class, such as N or P
· Generally the first Cutter is for author (taken from 100 field) and the second for title (taken from 245 or 240 field)
· If the work is entered under title (no 100), the title Cutter is the only one assigned
· Exceptions:
· Some classes specify the first Cutter (e.g., bibliographies) or first two Cutters
In some cases the first Cutter is assigned for the person the work is about, e.g.: Biographies
Bibliographies of specific composers or performers
See LC Class Schedule M for specific information
· In most call numbers, the final element will be the year of publication

Procedures for scores

· Scores with distinctive titles will generally be shelflisted in the same manner as books, using one Cutter for composer and a second for title
· If the work has an opus no. or thematic index no. in the uniform title, this will usually replace a Cutter. Check for existing patterns before making final decision
· If there is no opus or thematic index number, add one of the following, in the following order of preference:
1. Serial no.
2. Key (abbreviate major as maj., minor as min.
3. Date of composition in parenthesis
4. Double Cutter by title or editor, etc.
· For collections of works by one composer where the class number is equivalent to the uniform title (piano music, songs, etc.) assign a second Cutter based on editor, compiler, arranger or publisher, unless another arrangement is already in place.
· Complete works of one composer will generally have only one Cutter for author (M3).
· As with books, most score call numbers end with the year of publication