Summary: Guide for catalogers on OCLC local holdings codes in the 049 field, which are associated with MSUL locations and collections and are to be used in OCLC records at the point of cataloging.
About the 049
The 049 code is a non-MARC 4-character code that identifies one location or collection within the MSU Libraries, and its most important functions happen at the point of cataloging. The 049:
triggers some OCLC holdings functionality in the WorldCat database (upon setting holdings)
is used by Sierra to automatically generate the bib record location code (upon export)
Example: Exporting from OCLC with 049 of EEMB results in bib location code of bu in Sierra record
In some cases, the 049 code does not generate the correct Sierra location code, and these must be changed manually in Sierra after export (see chart below)
defaults to EEMR when editing a record in Connexion
is not preserved in the OCLC master record
is retained in exported record in Sierra
but serves no function in our local database, aside from incidental inventory and reporting purposes
If upon the point of cataloging you include an incorrect 049 code, the consequences are minimal. You will just need to:
remove holdings from the OCLC master record, correct the 049, and reattach holdings
adjust the bib location field in the Sierra record to reflect the correct location in our local catalog
adjust the 049 in our local catalog
while this step isn't technically necessary for any Sierra functionality, it reduces confusion
Locations & their 049 codes
This is a condensed listing for cataloger reference. For a full chart of all special record codes (049, bib, item, etc.) associated with specific catalog locations, see Location chart.