Formuliertitel

Formuliertitel is a term used in library and information science to describe a title that is formulated by a cataloger for a work that does not have an official or readily identifiable title. It is a descriptive, provisional label created to enable citation, indexing, and retrieval in bibliographic records.

The concept is applied especially to anonymous, unnamed, or poorly documented works, such as certain maps, pamphlets, archival items, or audiovisual materials. A formulierte Titel aims to reflect the content or form of the work in a concise, usable form, without asserting an authorial or publisher-imposed title. It is typically clearly identified in the catalog record as a formulierte Titel to avoid confusion with the work’s genuine title.

Formuliertitel serves several purposes: it improves discoverability in catalogs and search interfaces, supports grouping related items, and facilitates citation when no formal title exists. It is not intended to misrepresent the work; rather, it provides a practical entry point for users while preserving the distinction from any official or alternative titles that might exist.

In practice, formulierte Titel are part of cataloging conventions and may appear in fields or notes that record title statements and variant forms. They interact with other bibliographic elements such as author or creator, date, and language to create a usable record for researchers and readers.

See also: title, title proper, variant form of title, cataloging rules, MARC fields related to titles.