Cataloging for the Map and Imagery Library:
Atlases and Map Reference Materials
Atlases are acquired in various ways, but unless they are already designated to be located in the Map and Imagery Library, they are placed on the Map Review shelf in the CatMet processing area prior to cataloging for a location decision by the Map Librarian. Other books or items containing any amount of maps or of a cartographic nature should likewise be reviewed by the Map Librarian. Atlases already designated for the Map and Imagery Library Aleph sublibrary, UFMAP, collection GEN (previously ATL, or REF) should be placed in the “to be searched shelf” in the copy cataloging section; the materials will then be searched to determine whether they are DLC copy or higher level shared; while originals will be placed in the “to be cataloged shelf” [behind George’s workstation] of the Contributed Cataloging Unit.
Atlases are defined in the glossary of AACR2r as, "A volume of maps, plates, engravings, tables, etc., with or without descriptive text." These criteria distinguish atlases from various other books that are acquired for the Map and Imagery Library that are not atlases and are to be handled in the usual ways (i.e., regular monographs) by other appropriate staff and assigned the Aleph sublibrary UFMAP with the collection GEN (previously REF).
Atlases are cataloged according to standards established in AACR2r, Chapter 3 and classified in the LC class schedule G (range from G1000 to G3182). They are correctly cataloged as Map record type “e” (with the 007, 034, 052 and 255 fields as the most noticeable differences from book records), although a few will appear as book records with non-atlas call numbers (a choice from contributing or less reliable OCLC libraries). Subjects are assigned from LCSH and must contain the subfield |v Maps as well as adding the atlas subheading for any subject heading missing one. Previously, atlases were cataloged using the books format and some still appear that way in the catalog, now they must be cataloged using map format and rules in AACR2r Chapter 3.
Other map (non-atlas) reference materials are cataloged like most other books, following similar book cataloging rules and may take a whole variety of appropriate call numbers outside of the G class, although cartography books take the GA class numbers.
Previously, labels were created in the Map Library for cataloged map materials. Now map materials have been integrated into the regular physical processing of most every other library material and adjustments to the call number may be needed for proper labeling.
After full cataloging, which may be done in the Copy or Contributed Cataloging Units area (and now rarely in the Map Library), call number labeling, UF property stamping, etc., are provided for map library materials in the CatMet Dept. processing area after being placed on the appropriate “Map material needs processing” shelf.
Indexed: Atlas cataloging, Map materials, cartographic materials, atlases,
Map & Imagery Library
Prepared by: Jimmie Lundgren
Revised by: Jorge Gonzalez, June 23 , 2008
