A Guide to Classmarks and AMI IDs at NYPL
This document clarifies the history of unique ID systems used at NYPL to label Audio and Moving Image (AMI) materials, focusing on the usage of classmarks (call numbers) across different divisions.
Overview of ID Systems
- Post-2016: NYPL Research Libraries use a 6-digit AMI ID to identify individual physical instantiations (e.g., a specific VHS) and their corresponding digital files.
- Pre-2016: Classmarks were used for both physical labeling and digital file naming. While classmarks are no longer used for new digital files, they remain the primary label for physical items.
- Terminology: “Classmark” and “Call Number” are used interchangeably across NYPL systems.
Searching for Materials by ID
Research Catalog (nypl.org)
- Search Method: Select “Call number” from the search dropdown.
- Records: Generally represent a “work.” Individual physical items listed within the record usually have unique classmarks.
- Digital Files: Pre-2016 files include the classmark (e.g.,
myd_mgzto51603...); post-2016 files use the 6-digit AMI ID (e.g.,myd_357234...). - Legacy Views: Navigation at the bottom of the page allows viewing in the Legacy Catalog (for itemized lists/barcodes) or the MARC record.
Legacy Catalog (legacycatalog.nypl.org)
- Note: NYPL began a phased sunsetting of the Legacy Catalog in early 2026; it is moving toward onsite-only access.
- Search Method: Use the “By Call number” search option.
SPEC & EAVie
- SPEC: Search the “Any ID” field. Generally, only items digitized or slated for digitization have SPEC records.
- EAVie: Search general classmarks (e.g.,
NCOX) for all assets, or specific ones in quotes (e.g.,"NCOX 575-U") for individual items.
Digital Collections & Archives
- Digital Collections: Classmarks are displayed under Library Location as the “Shelf locator.”
- Archives and Manuscripts: Classmarks are often found within finding aids (e.g., “TOFT # NCOV 1111”).
Division-Specific Classmark Information
Jerome Robbins Dance Division (DAN) - LPA
Prefixes generally begin with *MGZ and distinguish between physical formats.
| Prefix | Format/Type |
|---|---|
| *MGZH(A/B/C) | Motion Picture Film (35mm, 16mm, 8mm) |
| *MGZI(A/B/C) | Video (Open-reel, VHS, Betamax, U-matic) |
| *MGZID(VD) | Videodiscs / DVDs |
| *MGZDF / *MGZDOH | Digital Video / Digital File |
| *MGZT(O) | Original recordings (Reel-to-reel, CD, LP) — Restricted |
| *MGZTC / *MGZTL | Listener copies (Cassette, CD) |
| *MGZTP / *MGZTD | Preservation/Dubbing masters — Restricted |
Music and Recorded Sound (MRS) - LPA
- *L prefixes distinguish formats.
- *LT-10: Preservation 1/4” open-reel audiotapes made from original grooved discs.
- *LJ- (7, 10, 12, 16): Original grooved discs (numbers indicate diameter).
Billy Rose Theatre Division (THE) - LPA
Focuses on the Theatre on Film and Tape Archive (TOFT) categories.
- NCOV: Recordings of performances created by NYPL (“Original documentation”).
- NCOX: Televised (“off-air”) recordings from external institutions (e.g., WNET).
- NCOW: NYPL-conducted interviews with performers and creators.
Schomburg Moving Image and Recorded Sound (MIRS)
Format: Sc [Audio/Visual] [Prefix]-[Number]
Audio Prefixes:
- C / CM: Audio Cassette
- CD / CD ROM: Compact Disc
- DAT: Digital Audio Tape
- RA / RE / PR: Records (7”, 12”, 78 rpm)
- TA / TB / TC / TD: Open-reel (3”, 5”, 7”, 10”)
- W: Wire recordings
Video/Film Prefixes:
- VRA / VRI: VHS / Betamax
- VRB / VRD / VRE: U-matic / Betacam SP / Digital Betacam
- VRF / VRG / VRH: Open-reel (1”, 1/2”, 2”)
- MPA / MPB / MPC: Film (8mm, 16mm, 35mm)