AACR2--An Introduction with a Difference.

This presentation of basic rules, principles and assumptions underlying the use of the Anglo-American Cataloging Rules, 2nd edition (AACR2) covers aspects of AACR2 which are easily overlooked, with emphasis on descriptive cataloging. The paper expands upon the following comments: (1) AACR2 is not intended for any specific type of library; (2) British spelling is used in the AACR2 publication itself; (3) AACR2 allows flexibility by use of alternative and optional rules, provision of three acceptable levels of document description, allowance for more judgmental decisions by catalogers, and provision for use of different style formats; (4) organization differs in the AACR2 and AACR1 publications; (5) changes from AACR1 occur in use of description areas and rule numbering, application of International Standard Bibliographic Description (ISBD), and utilization of allowable sources of cataloging information; (6) use of the General Material Designation (GMD) for type of material differs in America and Britain; (7) AACR2 examples are an improvement on those in AACR1; and (8) AACR2 changes the treatment of reproductions, e.g., microform reproductions of printed works. The conclusion to the paper provides a brief discussion of modifications to AACR2. (Author/ESR)