Principles of Construction of subject heading

1.1 Subject Heading:

A subject heading is a standardized term or phrase used in library catalogs to represent the main topic or content of a book, article, or other library resource. It serves as a concise and organized way to categorize and describe the subject matter, enabling users to locate materials related to specific topics during information retrieval efficiently. Subject headings are carefully selected to reflect the content of the resource accurately and are designed to be intuitive for library patrons. These controlled vocabulary terms contribute to the systematic organization of library collections, allowing consistent and effective access to various materials. The use of subject headings facilitates the discoverability of resources, aiding library professionals in cataloging and users in navigating the vast and diverse landscape of library holdings.

1.2 Principles of Construction Subject Heading in Library Catalogue:

1. Simple and modern heading: Subject headings should embrace simplicity and modern language, avoiding difficult and cumbersome phrases. This ensures that users, regardless of their background, can easily comprehend and navigate the catalog.
2. Avoidance of unnecessary subdivisions: Subdivisions within subject headings should only be used when essential. This principle prevents the unnecessary complication of the catalog and ensures that subdivisions add genuine value to the organization of materials.
3. Various categories of readers as the focus: Subject headings should be chosen with diverse user categories in mind. This inclusivity ensures that the catalog is accessible and useful to a wide range of patrons, including students, researchers, and industry professionals.
4. Unity in terms and avoidance of overlapping words: To maintain consistency, subject headings should unify different terms used by various authors for the same subject. Overlapping words should be avoided to eliminate confusion in the catalog.
        I.e. Biology-574 (class no)
   Life Biology-574 (Class no)
5. Terms representing common usage: Chosen subject headings must reflect common usage and align with the knowledge and needs of library users. This principle ensures that the terms are user-friendly and resonate with the intended audience.
6. Specificity: Subject headings should prioritize specificity over breadth. This means opting for detailed and precise terms that accurately capture the content of resources related to construction rather than using overly broad terms.
7. Term covering a field and more than one book: Subject headings should cover a specific field within construction and be applicable to more than one resource. This enhances the efficiency of the catalog by grouping related materials under a common heading.
8. No more than three subject headings: To maintain focus and prevent information overload, a maximum of three subject headings may be assigned to a publication covering multiple areas. For subjects with more than three topics, a general heading may be considered.
9. Use of the same punctuation, capitalization, and form: Consistent use of punctuation, spelling, capitalization, and form across subject headings is essential for maintaining uniformity. This contributes to a polished and professional appearance of the catalog.

By adhering to these principles, librarians ensure that the construction-related subject headings in the library catalog are effective tools for information retrieval, promoting an organized and user-friendly environment for patrons seeking resources in the construction field.