Home → Cataloging Bibliographic Records → Merging Bib Records → Different Format/Material Types
Last Updated 02/18/2026
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When merging records, Catalogers must be certain both records reflect the same content. When merging, catalogers should check for differences in format, as wellas ensure neither record reflects a kit or an electronic resource.
Never convert a bibliographic record from one material type to another. Records contain type specific identifiers in multiple fields and should not be treated as interchangeable for different formats. For example, do not convert a regular print bibliographic record to a large print record or vice versa.
Two different item types/formats should not be cataloged on the same bibliographic record unless they were bound together by the publisher and circulate together. For instance, a DVD and a Blu-ray should not share the same record unless they circulate together. See Videos section.
NOTE: Kits created by a library system may be on the same bibliographic record, following the standards specified in the Cataloging Kits section.
Bibliographic records for electronic resources (i.e. e-books, e-audiobooks, e-videos) that require authentication through another website should never have physical holdings attached.
NOTE: Some bibliographical records for physical holdings may have 856 links to full digital pdf versions of the print resource. Do not delete these 856 field(s). Also, do not delete digitization request links for bibliographic records that include Government and Heritage Library holdings.