The order of notes in MARC records is a recurring issue, most recently as it relates to the conventions to be applied in the PCC environment to integrating resources.  Different practices have grown up over time.  The reasons for this represent a somewhat complicated and checkered history.  The Library of Congress proposes to lay the matter to rest with an LCRI, which states a preferred practice but accommodates variation.

Please send comments on the following proposed LCRI to the CPSO email account at [log in to unmask] by June 13, 2003.

"1.7B Notes

 Prefer the order of notes as specified in the rules unless there are mitigating circumstances that result in a different order (e.g., a policy decision applicable to a particular cooperative enterprise, the requirements of a particular system, an administrative decision not to re-order notes when doing copy cataloging)."

Kay Guiles, CPSO