Sierra system changes when adding linked data-related fields and subfields

To prepare for the transition to linked data and BIBFRAME, libraries add linked data-related fields and subfields to bibliographic and authority records. Before adding new fields and subfields in either bibliographic or authority records, libraries need to update their MARC validity tables and Index Rules for both types of records.

In bibliographic records, linked data-related subfields include $4 or $e for relator codes (to make relationships between titles and authors or subjects explicit) and $0 (zero) or $1 (to make explicit the link between an author or subject and the associated URI (Uniform Resource Identifier)). These URI’s link to a Library of Congress authority record or to another authoritative source.

In authority records, the MARC format specifies adding URI’s in 024 fields.

CAUTION: Before adding new fields and subfields in either bibliographic or authority records, libraries need to update their MARC Validity Tables and Index Rules. Both will be updated by Support when the library opens a ticket requesting this work. Libraries may update their own MARC validity table, if preferred. This would be the case when validity tables have custom changes made by the library 

Index rules determine which parts of that record are added to an index as well as to which index. When following best practices, subfields $0 (zero), $1, $4, and $e are not indexed in any 1xx, 4xx, 6xx, 7xx 8xx field. If they are, the relationship between those fields in bibliographic records and the associated authority records is broken. This prevents some headings reports from correctly reporting, including the First Time Use, Blind References, and Invalid Headings standard reports. it also prevents Automatic Authority Control Processing (AACP) from correcting bibliographic records, when appropriate.

TIP: These resources may be helpful for learning more about URI's and coding them as $0 or $1:

PCC Task Group of URI's in MARC

PCC URI FAQ’s

PCC Formulating and Obtaining URI’s Guide (indicates which URI's go into $0 and which into $1)

Libraries which began adding linked data-related subfields without updating their Index Rules, and so experienced issues with indexing and Headings Reports, may open a ticket on Supportal to request updates to their Index Rules and MARC validity tables. Re-indexing bibliographic records requires a quote for indexing services. Please contact your account representative for this quote.