Nebeneinträge

Nebeneinträge, a German term, translates to "ancillary entries" or "sub-entries" in English. In various contexts, particularly in library science, archival science, and cataloging, nebeneinträge refer to additional entries in a catalog or index that provide access to a work through secondary points of interest. These are distinct from the main entry, which typically focuses on the primary author or title.

The purpose of nebeneinträge is to enhance discoverability and user access. For example, a book might have a main entry under its author's name. Nebeneinträge could then be created for co-authors, editors, translators, illustrators, or even significant subjects or series if they are deemed important enough to warrant separate access points. This allows users who may not know the main author but are interested in a co-author's work, or who are searching for items within a specific series, to find the relevant material.

In library catalogs, nebeneinträge are often created as analytical entries or added entries. They contribute to a more comprehensive and user-friendly bibliographic record, ensuring that resources can be located through multiple pathways. The decision to create a nebeneintrag is guided by cataloging rules and the perceived needs of the user community. They are essential for a well-organized and navigable information system.