Ambiguous entities

Updated 08/2018

Most headings fall into a clearly defined category: name (e.g., personal names, jurisdictions), or subject (e.g., topical subjects, geographic features). However, some named entities do not fit clearly into one of these categories. In an attempt to reduce confusion over such headings LC has issued guidelines that are excerpted in this procedure.

Types of headings are listed below according to their status as Names or Subjects. Note that tagging varies on a somewhat arbitrary basis. Whether a heading is treated as a Name or Subject below, will determine which rules and conventions to apply in establishing the heading - and whether to submit the heading to NACO for the name authority file, or to SACO for the subject authority file (green form).

This listing applies only to the specific "problem" cases. It does not include many of the usual corporate/geographic names we encounter: research centers, associations, conferences, cities, etc.

Note: For the most up-to-date list as well as notes on specific types of headings, please consult the Subject Heading Manual H 405 in Cataloger's Desktop.