Subj:   Shepard's citations numbering

I am a serials cataloger, but I catalog for our library those Shepards for
which we have a standing order.  Personally I favor lumping all the supple-
ments, main vols., etc. together on one record.  I also favor using the
numbering for the main vol. even if the supplements, etc. have their own
numbering scheme.  You can easily give a note explaining that the others have
a numbering scheme different from the main vol., with an indication what kind
of alternate numbering this is.  You are going to have add notes one way or
the other.  After all, if you designate only by date you will need a note
explaining that the main vols. have one type of numbering and the alternate
vols. another type.  Explaining two or more types of numbering schemes in
notes would be more confusing to library users than alternate numbering that
differs from the numbering designated in the 362 field (to my way of thinking
at least).  Also, using numbering besides just dates gives better holdings
control.

Just a few thoughts on the matter.  I'm sure there are other reasons for
keeping the main vol. numbering.  If I ever have more time I'll send them to
you.

John Radencich
Library-Cataloging Dept.
Florida International University
Miami, Florida 33199
RADENCIC@SERVAX.FIU.EDU
RADENCIC@SERVAX.BITNET