Summary: Instructions for cataloging multi-piece works on one bib record.
General info
A set has multiple volumes or pieces, but is considered one work and will usually have one collective title. Generally, cataloging a set involves:
using one bibliographic record to describe the entire set
shelving all parts together using the same call number
creating item records for each volume in the set
A set is different from a series, though sometimes a cataloger may need to decide whether set or series treatment is more appropriate. It is not unusual to find varying treatment in OCLC (one work that has been cataloged as a set by one institution, and as a series by another).
What is the availability of good copy? If original cataloging would be required for a different approach, is it worth the time investment?
Consider the subject matter of the individual volumes or pieces – does it make sense for these volumes to reside under one class number?
Do all the volumes share an overarching collective title that indicates they are part of a larger holistic work?
It may be helpful to consult the subject specialist for their preference, if that hasn't been made clear already on an order record or streamer
A set will consist of one bibliographic record in the catalog, and numerous item records attached to that bib. (Illustration is based on Sierra – FOLIO update forthcoming)
Occasionally, a volume belonging to one set will also belong to a separate related set or subset (see i153306932 as an example). The volume will likely have two different series titles with two corresponding sets of captions indicating this situation. In this case, the item record for the volume is cross-linked between the two set records.
Determine the predominant set to which the item belongs
Usually the order of the series titles and the captioning as presented on the piece in hand is a good clue
Locate predominant set bib in FOLIO
Make necessary edits to the 020,505, and 866 of the bib record
Use the appropriate caption for this set first, and include the other caption in parentheses
Example: v.7 (v.42)
Attach item record for added volume
Add set record's call number plus volume caption to the c field
Include both captions in the v field
Locate other related set record in FOLIO
Note bib record number for linking purposes
Make necessary edits to the 020, 505, and 866 of the bib record
Use the appropriate caption for this set first, and include the other caption in parentheses – i.e., the opposite of what you did in the predominant set record
Example: v. 42 (v.7)
Return to the new item record you attached to the predominant set bib (based on Sierra - FOLIO forthcoming)
Edit → Link to additional bib record → Find bib
Locate correct bib using record number
Click "Use bibliographic record"
When writing call number in piece, use the caption for the predominant set first