Cataloging: Fundamentals of the NLM® Classification
Module 4—General Principles
page 3 of 13
Introduction
Module 1
Overview of NLM Classification
Module 2
Using the Online NLM Classification
Module 3
Components of NLM Call Numbers
Module 4
General Principles
Module 5
Table G
Module 6
Form Numbers
Module 7
Bibliographies and Related Materials
Module 8
Classification of 19th Century Works and Early Printed Books
Module 9
Continuing Resources
Primary Subject(s) not in Classification Index
- When the MeSH term is not listed in the NLM Classification index, locate the broader term under which the primary MeSH term is treed and use that class number (Cf. Using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) in Cataloging: Module 2—Introduction to MeSH and MeSH Browser)
- For example, the MeSH term Iris Neoplasms is not in the Classification index. It is treed under Uveal Neoplasms which is in the index classed at WW 240. Iris Neoplasms would also be classed at WW 240
- Sometimes there are complex situations where a term is treed in more than one place
- Read the MeSH scope note, annotation, and previous indexing field for the chosen term and for that of the next higher terms in the tree
- Determine the context in which the term is used in the item being cataloged (i.e., determine the primary focus)
- Example:
- The MeSH term Auriculotherapy is not in the NLM Classification index
- Although it trees under Complementary Therapies (which is classed at WB 880-962), per the scope note and previous indexing, it is closely associated with ear acupuncture (WB 369.5.E2) and should be classed there
