Map Cataloging Manual: Barcoding Maps

Basic map (map on recto; verso is blank, filed flat)

1. Line up the barcode carefully before the label touches the surface as then it will be difficult or unable to be moved.
2. The barcode should always line up parallel with one of the edges of the map.
3. Place barcode on the verso (blank) side of the map, alternating between the upper left and upper right corners, approximately ½” from both the top and side edges.

Map on recto, text on verso, filed flat

1. The barcode should not cover ANY print matter (words).
2. Line up the barcode carefully before the label touches the surface as then it will be difficult or unable to be moved.
3. The barcode should always line up parallel with one of the edges of the map.
4. Place barcode on the verso side of the map, alternating between the upper left and upper right corners, approximately ½” from both the top and side edges.

Maps on recto and verso, filed flat

1. The barcode should not cover ANY part of the map or print matter (words).
2. Determine which side is the recto, based on call number.
3. Line up the barcode carefully before the label touches the surface as then it will be difficult or unable to be moved.
4. The barcode should always line up parallel with one of the edges of the map.
5. Place barcode on the verso, alternating between the upper left and upper right corners.

Folded maps (superscript MRU)

1. The barcode should not cover ANY print matter (words).
2. Line up the barcode carefully before the label touches the surface as then it will be difficult or unable to be moved.
3. The barcode should always line up parallel with one of the edges of the map.
4. Place barcode on the upper right corner of the panel verso, approximately ½” from both the top and side edges.. If text appears in upper right corner, place the barcode as close to this area as possible without covering any text.

Maps in envelopes (including additional materials)

1. The barcode should not cover ANY print matter (words).
2. Line up the barcode carefully before the label touches the surface as then it will be difficult or unable to be moved.
3. The barcode should always line up parallel with one of the edges of the envelope.
4. Place barcode on the verso side of the envelope, alternating between the lower left and lower right corners, approximately ½” from both the bottom and side edges.
5. Marking will include a sticker noting the number of items in the envelope.

Maps in set or series

1. Items should be barcoded following the appropriate rules above:

• One or more items in an envelope
• Items shelved separately, flat or folded

Facsimiles and Old, rare or fragile maps

1. Policies and procedures regarding barcoding and labelling of these maps will be determined by the Map Librarian before items are sent to Cataloging.
2. If item is to have barcodes placed directly on the item, follow the appropriate rules as noted above.

Encapsulated maps

1. When possible, the map should be barcoded and labelled after being encapsulated.
2. Follow the appropriate rules as noted above.

Other

• If any of the above locations still cover up printed words, ask your supervisor for placement assistance.