How to add a local field

Background

There are two methods of adding local fields (also called local extensions) in Alma: using the Metadata Editor “Add Local Extension” command or using a Normalization Rule.

For policy and overview of local fields, including inventory of local fields adopted for the consortium, consult Local Fields and Local Fields in Alma & Primo.

Step-by-step guide

To add a local field to a bibliographic record (NZ) using the “Add Local Extension” command:

1. Open NZ record in the Metadata Editor
2. From the MD Editor menu, select Edit > Add Local Extension. Alternative: use CTRL+L.
3. Enter local field (tag and data). Note: Institution icon  appears after local field tag is entered.
4. Save record.

To add a local field using a Normalization Rule:

1. Create a Normalization Rule for a local field. Follow steps outlined in How to create and test an Alma normalization rule. Or use an existing norm rule.
2. Open selected bibliographic record in the Metadata Editor.
3. Click on the split editor icon  on the upper right corner of the Metadata Editor; or use F6.
4. The Metadata Editor will split into two panes.
5. Click anywhere in the right pane.
6. Go to the Rules tab.
7. Select the local field norm rule to be applied, and select Edit.
8. The norm rule will appear in the right pane.
9. Click on the Preview button.
10. The Metadata Editor will display the existing bibliographic record in the left pane and the preview record (i.e., the record with the new local field added) in the right pane.
11. Click Apply Changes if local field was added as expected. The split pane disappears. Or, click Back to Normalization Rules to edit the rule, and then Apply Changes.
12. Click Save.

Ex Libris Documentation

Adding Local Extensions using the MD Editor (Ex Libris)