Creating Folder Titles
Always capitalize the first word in each folder title. If the original folder title supplied by the creator accurately describes folder contents, retain that title (e.g., Correspondence, 1969). Add any additional pertinent information in brackets (e.g., Scrapbook [Erasmus Hall High School], 1937). If the material is undated or a folder contains dated as well as undated material, "n.d." should appear after the title, following the dated material (e.g., Correspondence, 1968, n.d.). If you can provide an approximate date for materials, write the date using "ca." for circa (e.g., Cape Cod Fish Net Industries publicity contacts in New York City, notes, ca.1939).
Keep folder titles simple. They should not contain extensive information about formats or context already provided in the scope and content note. In other words, if the scope and content note states that most folders in an "Engagements" series contain correspondence, notes, programs, clippings, etc., it is unnecessary to repeat the listing of genres in each folder title. However, you may point out items that fall outside the scope of listed materials for that group (e.g., "includes diary").
Labeling Folders With Descriptive Headings
In the upper left corner of a legal-sized folder tab, either write the MC # and collection name (in pencil) or for larger collections, use a custom-made rubber stamp. Once the collection is completely processed and ready to be numbered, the file unit number (consisting of the container number and the folder number) will be written underneath the MC #. The folder heading follows the MC # an inch or so to the right. E.g.:
|