How do I create local fields in Alma?
CUNY has a shared catalog, meaning that all libraries use the same bibliographic record, with the primary record residing in the Network Zone (NZ) and a linked record in the Institution Zone (IZ). A library may wish to add information to bibliographic records that only pertains to their institution. This information should not be added to the NZ record if it doesn't apply to all schools. For instance, a library may use a call number formatted to a local scheme or insert notes about gifts and donations. This information can be added to the IZ with local extensions. These fields will only appear in the library's IZ in Alma and their instance of OneSearch; they are not visible in the NZ or other IZs.
The following fields can be marked as local extensions:
- 09X
- 59X
- 69X
- 77X
- 78X
- 9XX
Instructions
1. Open the record in the Metadata Editor.
2. Position your cursor in the field immediately before where you want to add a new field.
- For example, if you want to add a 590 field, place your cursor in the last 5XX field.
3. Go to Editing Actions > Add Local Extension.
4. Enter the field information.
- A blank field marked with a house icon (indicating that the field is local) will appear.
- Make sure to enter the correct MARC tag and, if necessary, indicators.
5. Go to Save > Save and Release Record.