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The preference is a source with the most complete presentation of the numbering (any sequence of sequence of numerals, letters, and/or dates) provided it appears prominently or is stated formally. “Most complete” does not necessarily mean that the components of the numbering are spelled out, only that they are present. (CCM:8.3.1b) Completeness is desirable because it simplifies the (588) Description based on note.
⮚Numbering from another source not prominent or a statement that is not formal:
CONSER practice is to record a designation from an informal statement, such as a statement found in the preface, if there is no other number or date that can serve as a designation and the publication is definitely a serial. If the choice is between type of date versus prominence, in most cases, prefer prominence. Prefer a coverage date found in the preface, however, to a copyright date.
⮚No date or number prominently stated:
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588 1# $a January/December 1990.
⮚On verso of title page:
c1991; Introduction has: The FY90 annual report covers the period March 1989 to February 1990.
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588 0# $a FY90; title from title page.
588 1# $a FY90
⮚Piecing together different sources:
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