The elements of description provided in DCRM(B) constitute a full set of information for describing rare materials.  This appendix sets out a less than full level of description containing those elements recommended as a minimum for effective description of early printed books and other rare materials.

Libraries most often turn to minimal-level cataloging to create accession records for new acquisitions, to provide access to low-priority unprocessed collections in backlogs, and for item-level access to digital images.  These guidelines are provided in response to such needs.  Their purpose is not to promote the use of DCRM(B) minimal-level cataloging, but rather to provide a usable standard for those institutions wishing to adopt it.

See also:

Appendix D:  Minimal-Level Records