Introduction to CONSER Cataloging

Serials, whether a periodical, newspaper, mono-series or issued in print or electronically, possess certain defining properties as (1) having no predetermined conclusion; (2) issued in discrete parts (by a corporate body) with (3) each part containing numbering that identifies the issue as unique from others, (4) the title proper and related title information serves as the authorized identifier of the serial resource.

The dynamic nature of serials makes serial cataloging an exceptionally intricate and complex task. The title proper, numbering, and frequency of issuance may change multiple times over the life of the serial. Related works are sometimes issued with the main serial, and the body responsible for the serial may function as the creator or simply the publisher and issuing body.

By adhering to the Cooperative Serials Program's established procedures, rules, standards, and professional ethics, CONSER cataloging increases the likelihood that the serial bibliographic record will accurately describe the resource while ensuring continued patron access. This is particularly important for records accessible across bibliographic and information-sharing platforms.

At the end of the CONSER cataloging process is the CONSER Standard Record or CSR. The CSR is a bibliographic record consisting of all elements necessary and required to fully describe the resource consistent with OCLC full-level input standards based on its most recent iteration and established protocols for sourcing and describing those elements.