Duplicates and other manifestations: a new approach to the presentation of bibliographic information

Abstract

This article discusses the problem of bibliographic control in the large machine- readable databases that are replacing the traditional library catalogue The nature of duplication in these large databases is examined and a possible way in which it could be eliminated is outlined It is suggested that the main entry should be replaced by a manifestation entry This would enable a new approach to be made to the way in which catalogue information is presented to the user. Revised and expanded functions and objectives for the catalogue are laid down to replace those of Cutter which have been used for over a century Modern developments in bibliographic control make this change possible