Appendix D, 2012 December 10


Last updated 1/29/2013 @ ALA Midwinter Seattle

 

Appendix D. Minimal Level Record

 

 

D1. Introduction

 

The elements of description provided in DCRM(MSS) constitute a full set of information for describing individual manuscripts. This appendix sets out a less than full level of description containing those elements recommended as a minimum for effective description of these manuscripts.

 

Libraries and archives may turn to minimal-level description for individual manuscripts to provide some item-level access with the least amount of time and effort possible. These guidelines are provided in response to that need.

 

D2. Application

 

Catalogers and archivists may apply the minimal-level standard to any manuscripts described using DCRM(MSS). DCRM(MSS) minimal-level records are especially appropriate when extended description is undesirable or unfeasible but some item-level description is warranted by collection management needs, security concerns, or to facilitate access to the individual item.

 

D3. Elements of the description

 

D3.1. The required elements of a minimal-level record are:

 

Title

Date

Extent

 

D3.2. Optionally, add any additional elements in accordance with institutional policy. In particular, consider adding one or more of the following, each of which can significantly enhance the value of minimal-level DCRM(MSS) records for identifying rare materials:

 

 

D3.3. Minimal-level description policies often eliminate or simplify additional areas of the description not covered in DCRM(MSS) such as subject headings, classification, or other access points. Users of DCRM(MSS) may also wish to streamline these areas according to local needs.