The functions of the catalogue are examined, and the way in which the main entry has evolved as a means of achieving these functions efficiently and effectively is considered. The changing situation created by the advent of the computer into cataloguing is described. It is suggested that all but one of the functions of the catalogue can be carried out in a machine environment without the aid of the main entry. Since choice of main entry is the most time-consuming and therefore most costly part of the cataloguing operation, a compromise solution is suggested based on main entry selection by computer.
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