University Libraries Cataloging and Metadata Services

Any item lacking copy should be referred for original cataloging; any item with partial or incomplete copy (i.e., lacking a call number or subjects) may be processed and referred for specific action. Any complex or foreign language item may be referred, and any item may be referred for reason of processor's discomfort. It is often helpful to accompany referrals with an indication of why the item is referred. When referring an item, it may be handed to the intended victim, or placed discreetly on the individual's shelf in the security closet.

Susan: Unique and manuscript items, such as letters and other hand-written material; ephemeral materials.

Lori: Serials and French-language monographs.

John: Latin, Greek, and cartographic material.

Ken: German language material and toys/puzzles/games.

Other languages may be folded in to basic referrals, as we each have an equal chance of mucking them up. Unclassified referrals are divided among Ken and John. Annie is always available for consultation, but is generally not part of the usual referral process.

Music items, such as scores and sound recordings, are generally referred to the Music/AV Team, unless they are manuscript/original (oral histories) in which case they go to Susan.

Note that Enc Lvl can often be an interesting clue about a records' quality, but referrals are generally not based solely on Encoding Level.