Six uses of classification in online retrieval systems are envisioned--to improve recall and precision; to conceptualize meaning of vague search terms; to provide structure for browsing; to provide framework for retrieval of nonbibliographic information; to collocate citations; and to achieve compatibility of retrieval languages. Seven sources are…

Describes various ways in which software systems for online catalogs can be designed to enhance subject access. Highlights include what to search (subject headings, titles, notes, authority-file records, classification numbers, and associated text); truncation and stemming; spelling correction; search strategies (headings, keywords, Boolean…

An analysis of the punctuation of the eighth edition Library of Congress Subject Headings reveals that the hyphen, coma and parentheses are most often used. Examples of these and the use of the apostrophe, dash, and period are discussed. (Author/MBR)

The problem of the direct and inverted forms of adjective-noun subject headings which contain national adjectives is reexamined. A pattern based on subject categories is discovered which is different from the pattern based on work-frequency discussed in Harris' Subject Analysis. (11 references) (Author)

Designed for use with a computer-produced subject index, PRECIS assigns clerical procedures in subject heading work to computer programs. The subject headings represent a unique combination of several different characteristics, permitting several coextensive forms of a subject name for each work. Final choice amongst alternatives is made by the…

Review of the 1987 subject access literature covers: (1) general works; (2) organization, history, theory, and method of classification; (3) classification systems; (4) subject headings and the Library of Congress; (5) subject authority control through the Library of Congress Subject Headings; (6) subject searching in online catalogs; and (7)…

The recently accepted practice by LC of systematic duplication of entries at specific and generic levels is discussed. The new practice is justified but its goals are not accomplished--it does not reveal more of the LC collection, causes inconveniences, and a pointless enlargement of catalogs. It should be abandoned. (Author)

Findings of this study indicate that the degree of adequacy varies and identify three major needs: (1) prescriptive measures to ensure adequate subject analysis; (2) new subject heads to provide greater topic and race specificity; and (3) more research as the basis for improvement of present practices or the design of a new system. (Author/MBR)

Discussion of indexing consistency and its possible effect on information retrieval focuses on a study that compared indexing (or cataloging) consistency between Library of Congress catalogers and British Library catalogers assigning Library of Congress Subject Headings. The average indexing consistency value is calculated for 82 titles in library…

A proposed cataloging and information access tool for children's media would combine the most useful aspects of library subject-heading lists and thesauri to meet American Library Association recommendations for subject cataloging of juvenile material. Computer-based production of a preliminary edition is planned for 1983. Fifteen references are…

This article discusses a preliminary set of objectives for subject access to microcomputer software identified by a subcommittee of the American Library Association's Subject Analysis Committee. Problems of subject access to microcomputer software and work of the subcommittee to date are reported. Fifteen references are cited. (EJS)

Reviews some research on the use of library catalogs in the light of four functions (finding list, gathering, collocating, and evaluative); suggests that access points for each work be increased and that problems involved in entry choice be analyzed further. A list of references is included. (FM)

Offers illustrations of anomalies and prejudices found in common information retrieval tools: "LC Subject Headings" (9th edition), "Dewey Decimal Classification" (19th edition), "Universal Decimal Classification" (3rd abridged edition). Index terms in areas of sexual bias, social strata, politics, knowledge, customs,…

An investigation was conducted to determine whether proposed changes would improve end-user understanding of subdivided Library of Congress Subject Headings. Demographics, library use, and searching knowledge were considered from 63 end-users and 6 professional catalogers who answered questionnaires. Tables and figures display results. (Contains…

This paper analyzes proposals for augmenting library bibliographic records for improved subject searching in online catalogs by providing access to parts of books. Arguments for and against adding book content indexing, possible fields for enrichment, and feasibility of 11 alternatives for providing such information are presented. Twenty-two…