Ed, Regarding cataloging photographs, its depends on the purpose of the collection. Many photograph collections are part of a larger archival collection including papers and other material. In this case the same standards apply as to text- based collections. Here, the photographs and other visual material have traditionally been weeded from archival collections and handled separately. If there is enough material centered on an indvidual (e.g. Oliver Wendell Holmes) or a particular institution (the Inns of Court, London) I will create a new collection and finding aid/inventory to document it. Most often, however, new items are integrated into already existing collections (portraits, Harvard Law School Buildings, U.S. Supreme Court, etc.). I am often at odds with both my archival and museum colleagues. Many archivists feel that photographic and other visual material should remain with the papers and be treated as part of that collection. Many of the collections in my care are grouped according to subject and are often mixed media (paintings, objects, photographs, prints, drawings) which confuse my museum colleagues who are used to material being divided by genre/medium. One book I find useful in cataloging and which is the standard for many people is: "Graphic materials: rules for describing original items and historical collections." Compiled by Elisabeth W. Betz (Washington, D.C.: Library of Congress, 1982). I have many other reference sources I use, so feel free to contact me if you would like more. I hope this helps. With every good wish, Steven ********************************************************************** Steven R. Smith Art Collection Tel: (617)495-3150 Harvard Law School FAX: (617)495-4449 Cambridge, MA 02138 E-mail: [log in to unmask] **********************************************************************