Overview
ISO 10586:1996 - Information and documentation - Georgian alphabet coded character set for bibliographic information interchange - specifies a standardized coded character set for the modern Georgian (mxedruli) script. The standard defines a set of 42 graphic characters, provides a code table and a legend with each graphic and its name, and includes explanatory notes and informative annexes on script history and bibliographic references. The primary purpose is to support the reliable interchange of bibliographic citations and related metadata among data processing systems and within message transmission systems.
Key topics and requirements
- Character repertoire: A defined set of 42 Georgian graphic characters intended to cover modern mkhedruli use in bibliographic contexts.
- Code table and legend: A formal code table (Table 1) and legend (Table 2) that map codes to graphics and character names for unique identification.
- Naming alignment: Character names are made to correspond as far as possible with names in ISO/IEC 10646‑1.
- Implementation rules:
- Intended implementation follows ISO/IEC 2022 mechanisms and is identified by an escape sequence (assignment noted in the standard).
- Unassigned positions in the code tables shall not be utilized for international bibliographic interchange.
- Rendering guidance: graphics are provided for identification and do not prescribe calligraphic forms.
- Punctuation and numerals: The standard references use of punctuation and numerals in European style available from the international register for combined use with Georgian.
- Informative annexes: Annex A reviews the development and three historical forms of Georgian script (asomtavruli, nusxakhuri, mxedruli); Annex B provides a bibliography of related standards and sources.
Applications
- Bibliographic data exchange: Standardizes how Georgian script is encoded in bibliographies, library catalogs, and citation interchange between systems.
- Data processing & transmission: Enables interoperable encoding in message transmission systems and archival or bibliographic databases.
- Software & font development: Useful for developers implementing Georgian character support in encoding libraries, input methods, fonts, or data interchange tools.
- National libraries, archives, and publishers: Ensures consistent bibliographic representation where Georgian-language materials are catalogued or exchanged.
Related standards
- ISO/IEC 2022 - character code structure and escape sequence registration
- ISO/IEC 10646‑1 - Universal Multiple-Octet Coded Character Set (naming alignment)
- Other ISO information‑processing and transmission standards referenced in the original standard
Keywords: ISO 10586:1996, Georgian alphabet coded character set, bibliographic information interchange, mxedruli, Georgian characters, character encoding, ISO/IEC 2022.