I learnt you should never assume the ordering with SQL and always qualify
it:

Select volume_name,last_read_date from volumes order by last_read_date

or in descending order

Select volume_name,last_read_date from volumes order by last_read_date desc


Mit freundlichen Grüßen - With best regards
Serdeczne pozdrowienia - Slan agus beannacht
Paul Baines
TSM/ADSM Consultant