Using the Subject
Cataloging Manual
The authoritative
source for verifying form subdivisions is the Cataloger's Desktop version
of Subject Cataloging Manual : Subject Headings (SCM:SH).
The relevant sections are general free-floating subdivisions (H1095-H1145.5)
and subdivisions controlled by pattern headings (H1147-H1188).
Remember that even "free-floating" subdivisions
may have restrictions in use. For example, the subdivision
--Personal
narratives is only valid under names of events and wars.
In SCM:SH, subdivisions are coded either
$v or $x. Any subdivision coded $v may also be used as a topical
subdivision ($x) if appropriate, unless LC explicitly forbids its use as
$x (e.g., the subdivision --Software).
However, any subdivision coded $x in SCM:SH
can never be used as a form subdivision
($v)! To learn more about subdivisions that cannot be used as "form,"
go to the next page.
