LCSH and periodical indexing: adoption vs. adaptation

Miller, Joseph Kuhr, Patricia

Cataloging & classification quarterly 2000 29 (1-2)159-168
(ReLIS:jul:qmcdam:y:2000:v:29:i:1-2:p:159-168)

Abstract:

The Library of Congress Subject Headings (and authority lists derived from LCSH) are used by the H. W. Wilson Company to index a wide variety of periodicals, including the most popular news-stand magazines, children's materials, trade magazines, professional journals, scholarly academic journals, and technical and scientific journals. The simple syndetic structure and subject-string grammar of LCSH are practical, pragmatic, and readily adaptable to periodical indexing. Some modifications are necessary, however. Not only does the material being indexed require specialized headings, but the various user groups, from children to lawyers, require various levels of language in subject access. Furthermore, because periodical articles are often on ver narrow (or new) topics, periodical indexing requires much greater specificity (or currency) than LCSH usually provides.

Keywords: Publicaciones periódicas ; Indización ; Encabezamientos de materia ; Library of Congress subject headings
Pages: 159-168
Volume: 29
Year: 2000
Issue: 1-2

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