---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 14:29:33 -0800
From: THOMAS MICHELLE _ <fnmt@AURORA.ALASKA.EDU>
Subject: Re: One record approach to cataloguing Internet resources (fwd)

   ON JUNE 4, 1996 YOU WROTE:

>
> The National Library of Australia has been cataloguing electronic serials
> since early 1994.  In January 1996, the decision was made to trial a 'one
> record' approach to titles for which both an electronic and print version
> exist.  In practice, this means that information regarding the existence of
> an online version is incorporated into the record for the paper-based
> serial.
>
> The information currently being added to bibliographic records includes the
> electronic location and access details (USMARC 856 / ABN tag ELA) and a note
> indicating that the title is available electronically.  For example; 'From
> issue 3 (Nov. 1995) also available in an electronic version via the Internet
> at http://...'.  As the ISSN International Centre requires that separate
> ISSNs be allocated to print and electronic versions of the same title, both
> ISSNs are included in the same record.
>
> The National Library of Australia's decision to create only one record to
> describe both electronic and print versions is chiefly a pragmatic one - it
> is less resource intensive to add one or two fields to an existing record
> than to create separate records.  It is also easier for users to access one
> record describing a resource and be offered a choice of format than to have
> to search a catalogue for multiple records.
>
> The National Library of Australia is interested in hearing the views of
> other libraries with regard to this issue.  Please send your comments to the
> list so that all subscribers may participate.
>
> Note for ABN-L subscribers:  These comments are based upon National Library
> of Australia policies and practices.  These are not necessarily the views of
> the ABN Office.
>
>
> Leanne McKinnon
> Senior Librarian, Electronic Unit
> National Library of Australia
> lmckinno@nla.gov.au
>
>  The concept of creating one record to describe both electronic and
print versions of a serial title is a great idea. It is less labor
intensive and more efficient. I also agree with the statement that it is
easier for users to access one record and be offered a choice of format
than to have to search a catalogue for mutiple records.