6xx - Subject Heading Fields

The 6xx fields provide information to the patron regarding the subject matter contained in the item being described.  These fields are important for subject searches performed by the computer.  Because of this, these fields must be formatted in very specific and regulated ways.  For this reason they should also be controlled in OCLC whenever possible. 

Each of these fields has specific rules that dictate the permissible codes for indicators, subfields, and how information should be entered and formatted.  However, a general overview of the subfields is helpful.

Control the subject headings.  Key Shift + F11 or go to the menu bar and select “Edit” and then choose “Control Headings” and click “All” or “Individual.” If you have any questions about controlled the added entry statements, ask a cataloger.

Delete all 6xx fields with a second indicator other than “0” (with the exception of 655s).  If one of these subject headings seems to be useful or pertinent, go to Classification Web and find an LC subject heading to replace it. All non–literature books should have at least 1 subject heading assigned.  Also, watch that the subject headings make sense for the book.

Examples:

655      Genre/Form

This field is used to indicate the genre or form of the item being described.  It cannot be verified in OCLC.  This field is used mostly in literature and art.  Leave the 655s in the record if it is useful and makes sense. If the 655 is a duplicate of a 650 field AND the 655 describes the genre or form of the item, then delete the 650.  See MARC Help for more information about this field.