Added Access Points in Thesis Cataloging: Enhancing Public Service Without Running Athwart Input Standards

ABSTRACT Library users often need to search for locally-produced dissertations and theses by access points, such as advisor or department of origin, that have not been supported in the cataloging rules or US-MARC bibliographic format. Libraries needing to provide such non-conventional access were forced to use standard fields in unconventional ways. USMARC format integration and changes in OCLC fields have provided opportunities for libraries to bring local practice into conformity with AACR2R and OCLC standards, while retaining valuable local access points. This paper reviews the literature of thesis cataloging and uses the evolution of local policies at the University of Northern Colorado Libraries to suggest possible directions for changes in cataloging practice.