Software, computer games, and videogames

The rules on this page have been approved in concept by the SCRAP committee, but the exact wording is still being adjusted. Please use these rules. Please send any feedback to SCRAP.

Local exceptions, guidelines, and reminders for cataloging software and computer games, such as CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, Blu-ray videogames, and diskettes.

Additional physical fixed field (007)

The fifth position of this field (007 ‡e in OCLC WorldCat) is normally coded g for 4 ¾ in. discs. Code Nintendo GameCube discs as z, as they are much smaller.

General material designation (245 ‡h)

In general, use [electronic resource (Carrier)], where "Carrier" is Disk, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

For videogames, use [electronic resource (Platform)], where "Platform" is GameCube, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii, Xbox, or Xbox 360.

Examples:

[electronic resource (CD-ROM)]
[electronic resource (DVD-ROM)]
[electronic resource (PlayStation 3)]
[electronic resource (Wii)]
[electronic resource (Xbox 360)]

Edition (250)

Do not use the edition field to differentiate between versions for Windows, Macintosh, or both unless the word "edition" is actually found on the item. For example, version 1.2, Windows version 1.2, Macintosh ed., and Win/Mac ed. are appropriate if found on the item; Windows [ed.], Win/Mac, and so forth are not appropriate as edition statements; transcribe these in a note instead.

 

Do not use the edition field to differentiate between videogame platforms, as the platform should be coded as a parenthetical qualifier in the GMD in records in the CCS catalog.

Extent of item (300 ‡a)

Prefer to use terms in common usage (e.g. 1 CD-ROM, 1 DVD-ROM, or 1 Blu-ray disc) rather than AACR2R's formal terms (e.g. 1 computer optical disc), though the latter is still acceptable. Do not use 1 computer laser optical disc.

Dimensions (300 ‡c)

Use 3 1/4 in. for GameCube discs, even though they are actually 3 1/8 inches in diameter. (See AACR2R 9.5D1(a).)

Number of players note (500)

For videogames, record the number of players that the game supports.

Examples:

500    1-4 players.
500    1-4 players (online 2-8).
500    1-2 players, co-op 2, (online multiplayer 2-4).

Audience note (521)

When an item has an ESRB rating, include that in an audience note.

Example:

521 8  ESRB rating: Everyone (cartoon violence, comic mischief).

Summary (520)

Summary notes are required for children's software and games, and are recommended for all software and games when the nature and scope of the content is not clear from the rest of the bibliographic record.

Subjects (6XX)

See the article on Electronic resource subject headings.