Video documentation (local)

Updated 2020

Introduction

There are primarily three types of formats we will encounter: DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and VHS cassettes. On rare occasions, however, other types will pop up (such as Beta, film reels). Catalogers should consult the following sources of information:

• The container provides most of the information needed in cataloging the item, namely the title, the director, date this item was manufactured (the date that is entered in the 264 and the 1st fixed field date), cast, crew, and time duration.
• In cases where this information does not agree with what appears on the title screen(s), the latter should take precedent and be used as the chief source of information.

NTSC DVDs can be viewed on your computer (using the Windows Media Player); there is a portable DVD player for PAL formats. VHS videocassettes can be viewed on the TV/VHS player in the room with the photocopier. This player only plays NTSC (National Television System Committee) cassettes. Most North and South American countries use this standard as well as some Asian countries. You cannot view through this player the following types of cassettes:

PAL cassettes are used in two South American countries (Argentina and Brazil), Europe, Africa, and some Asian countries. PAL cassettes can be viewed on the video cassette players in the French/Italian or Spanish/Portuguese study rooms on the B-Floor.

SECAM is used in a few European and Asian countries, some Caribbean nations, and in Africa. To view SECAM cassettes, consult the language lab in East Pyne.