What it is: The Sears List of Subject Headings is one of the most popular lists of subject headings used in school libraries. It was created to be easy for librarians to use and users to understand. Scientific terminology that is found in the Library of Congress Subject Headings was eliminated and replaced by vernacular terms in order to be more accessible to non-academic library users. The end result was a simple list, but includes instructions for librarians to create lists for their library that are specific to their own user needs (Kaplan & Riedling, 2006).
How it Works: 1. Headings are created based on Literary Warrant 2. Complex headings are pre-coordinated 3. Synonyms are eliminated 4. Headings are coextensive with the content being described and are entered directly 5. Heading terms are accurate and precise 6. Heading terms match searchers' vocabulary 7. Headings are assigned as consistently as possible 8. Filing the subject headings (Intner & Weihs, 2015)
More about Headings Headings can be single nouns, two words, or multiple words. Approved Headings are not always found in the Sears List and it is not a requirement that name subject headings are created in accordance with approved forms, like the Library of Congress Name Authority File. However, to be consistent with other catalogs, it is recommended that these approved forms be taken into consideration and used as much as possible. (Intner & Weihs, 2015)
Cross References USE-directs user to accepted term UF (Use For)-Opposite of Use, shows user the term that is not used BT (Broader Term)-Shows user terms that are broader NT (Narrower Term)-Shows user terms that are narrower RT (Related Term)-Shows user terms that are related, meaning at the same level as the original term SA (See Also)-Aids the cataloger in the creation of new and/or more specific headings (Kaplan & Riedling, 2006)
More about Subdivisions
Library of Congress Subject Headings have more subdivided headings than Sears
Always follow the main heading in alphabetical order
Can appear in four different ways:
as authorized subdivisions following the main heading
subdivided geographically
general subdivision terms that are provided in earlier information
by "key" headings, such as:
author, ethnic groups, languages, literature, places, publice figures, or wars
(Intner & Weihs, 2015)
Advantages of Sears of List Subject Headings:
Less expensive to use than LC Subject Headings
Created specifically for small collections and school libraries
Links headings to abridged Dewey Classification numbers
Uses natural language
(Kaplan & Riedling, 2006)
Disadvantages of Sears List of Subject Headings:
Many online catalogs, such as OCLC, do not use Sears
No workshops or conferences devoted to Sears and not a lot of networking possibilities through it
(Intner & Weihs, 2015)
Additional Resources for Sears List of Subject Headings
OCLC offers an online version of Sears that is availabe for purchase.