In the fixed field "Form" (Form of Item) use code "s" for electronic resources. Accurate coding of the data in fixed field "Form" is critical. OCLC software uses the code in two essential ways:

1. For indexing in both FirstSearch and cataloging interfaces.
2. For duplicate detection, both when records are imported in a batch into the OCLC system and when software that eliminates duplicates in WorldCat is periodically run. If code 's' is not present for an electronic resource, the record is not indexed correctly. Lack of coding is likely to cause duplicates to be ignored and some records to be merged when they should not be.

Reminder: In fixed field element FORM use 's' electronic resources when:

The item is intended for manipulation by a computer. The item may reside in a carrier accessed either directly or remotely. The item may also require the use of peripheral devices attached to the computer (e.g., a CD-ROM player). Do not use code 's' for items that do not require the use of a computer (e.g., music compact discs and videodiscs).

Please review your practices and policies to incorporate code 's' for electronic resources in "Form" as described in Bibliographic Formats and Standards. For more detailed information about cataloging electronic resources, see Cataloging Electronic Resources: OCLC-MARC Coding Guidelines.

Last revised: 13 October 2004