Yesterday I posted about the addition of “dildos” to the Library of Congress Subject Headings. I was so excited I told almost everyone in class today. Someone asked, “What about vibrators? Blow up dolls?” So I thought I should check.
It seems vibrators is only listed in terms of machinery (like heavy machinery – and not that kind). Also, there’s no “blow up doll” (but are authorized headings for bands named “Blow Up”). We have to start small with “dildos” and “strap-on sex”…
Tags: LCSH, libraries, subject headings
October 29, 2007 at 9:30 pm
Goes to figure that the phallic substitutes would be first in to be added…
October 30, 2007 at 9:15 am
Darn. Or, yay! Seems like LoC is ahead of the times. The accepted heading for an, ahem, “recreational” vibrator is:
Vibrators (Massage) (May Subd Geog)
Looks like euphemistic appellations are rife in the world of subject headings.
October 30, 2007 at 10:02 am
Vibrators (Massage) has been a heading since at least 2002. Check the 670s to verify it includes sexual purposes.
October 30, 2007 at 5:55 pm
I’m so glad I have such talented catalogers to help set the record straight… (or queerly forward – whatever you prefer…)
November 1, 2007 at 12:51 am
Not only is “Dildos” an accepted LCSH term, but so is “Strap-on sex.” It was added at the same time. I pointed out the latter term to Jessamyn, which is what got the ball rolling (so to speak).