faithful guide to each and every rule of ... - Oberlin College

Appendix C
C.1:CSB104
General rule
Form for Arabic Numerals
LC practice: Because the frequency of occurrence of numbers that impacts
access is very low, clear searching guidelines reflecting the Library’s Integrated Library
System (ILS) treatment of Arabic numerals are judged more practical than extensive
guidelines for providing alternative access.
In the ILS commas and periods are normalized as spaces. Thus 1,512 is
treated as though it were 1 512; 1.512 is treated as 1 512, i.e., the same as it would be
if the number were recorded with a space. Since searching guidelines will provide
guidance related to the searching of numbers, in general, record Arabic numerals according
to the style found on the resource being cataloged or in the usage of any entity, usually
a corporate body, being used as a heading.
1) Decimals. Decimals may occur with a period or a comma as the decimal
point, in which case record them as found on the source or as used by any entity that is
being established.
3.14159
3,14159
2) Other numbers given in Arabic numerals. Numbers of one thousand or more
may occur with a space, with a comma, or without either. Record them as found on the
source or as used by any entity that is being established.
32 987
32,987
32987
contains.
Reminder: Do not use a comma in a year regardless of the number of digits it
1066 and all that ...
If recording a number in a portion of a record for which “found source” or
“usage” may not be germane, e.g., in a note, use judgment and record the number in a
manner that aims to achieve intelligibility. Do not use a comma in a year regardless of
the number of digits it contains.
Do not update existing records to reflect the practice stated in this LCRI.
C.2B1:CSB117
Arabic numerals vs. roman numerals
CONSER standard record practice: It is not required to convert roman
numerals to Arabic numerals when giving serials numbering.
C.3B1:CSB117
Arabic numerals vs. numbers expressed as words
CONSER standard record practice: It is not required to substitute Arabic
numerals for words when giving serials numbering.