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Wednesday, 2 July 2025

Understanding ISBD – International Standard Bibliographic Description




The International Standard Bibliographic Description (ISBD) is a globally recognized standard developed by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) to provide a consistent format for the bibliographic description of library materials. It plays a vital role in ensuring that cataloguing entries are uniform and internationally understandable.


📘 Purpose of ISBD

  • To standardize the format for bibliographic records across libraries
  • To support the sharing of cataloguing data worldwide
  • To facilitate both human-readable and machine-readable records

🗂️ ISBD Areas of Description

Area No.DescriptionExample
1Title and Statement of ResponsibilityModern Cataloguing / by R. Smith
2Edition Statement2nd ed.
3Material/Type-Specific Information(Applicable to maps, films, etc.)
4Publication and DistributionNew York : Oxford Press, 2022
5Physical Description234 p. : ill. ; 24 cm
6Series(Library Essentials; v.3)
7NotesIncludes bibliographical references
8Resource IdentifierISBN 978-1-23456-789-0

✳️ ISBD Punctuation

  • : separates title and subtitle
  • / precedes statement of responsibility (e.g., author)
  • ; separates multiple authors
  • , separates elements within one area
  • . ends each area

✅ Importance of ISBD in Cataloguing

  • Forms the foundation of bibliographic description in AACR2 and MARC21
  • Promotes data consistency in library catalogs and OPACs
  • Essential for LIS education and cataloguing practice

🎓 Tip for Students

Memorizing the 8 areas of ISBD and their punctuation rules is crucial for clearing cataloguing questions in exams like UGC NET, KVS, NVS, DSSSB and other LIS exams.



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