Checking Items In and Out Using Titles

Most libraries use barcode labels and scanners to perform circulation, because they are quick and accurate.  Each copy of an item has a unique number with a barcode that can be quickly scanned.  Patron's can also have a unique number placed on a library card.   Patron barcodes are less popular in smaller libraries and schools  because  patrons usually forget or misplace their cards.  

LibraryWorld, has always allowed circulating using  patron barcode numbers or patron names.  To insure accuracy and speed, a barcode number was required for items being circulated.

As a new alternative, you can now enter the first few words of the title and a list will appear allowing you to confirm the title by selecting the barcode number.  This also works for check in,  hold, clear hold and reserve. 

To keep the user interface as simple as possible there is only one entry text field, which is  active by default (blinking cursor).   For check out,  enter the patron's barcode number or name.  Next, type or scan the barcode of the item, or the first few words of the title.  If a barcode is found, the prompt confirms and the title is displayed along with other transactions for the patron. If you enter a title, a list of copy records associated with that title (or similar titles starting with those words) will appear.  You then click on the correct barcode number to confirm the checkout. Continue entering titles or item barcodes until done with that patron.

To start the the process over for a new patron, just enter the patron name or number. The program checks those first and if found, the process starts again.  In extremely rare cases, a patron name and a title of the book may be exactly same (think 'Kennedy'), you can force title searching by using the string 't:kennedy'.  Otherwise the program might start checking out to the patron Kennedy.   To prevent that issue, you can also  use the first few words of the title.  Checking out by title requires you to confirm the item by clicking on the barcode number, at which time you can correct any issues.   

Smaller libraries that do not want to barcode their collection can now circulate now without doing so.  However, we always recommend putting barcodes on your holdings to increase accuracy and to handle multiple copies.  Although you can now circulate by title, you will still need to add a copy to each title to create the unique barcode number.   These numbers and records are used not only for circulation, but also for inventory control and collection management reports. The only times you should catalog without adding a barcode is when the item is not physical; such as a web site or eBook. 

Use these features on a 'safe' patron to become familiar with the process. 

We hope you enjoy this new feature.

The LibraryWorld Team