Transcription
AutomationBasics for theSmall PublicLibrary
Why automate?Automation makes a library’s collection available onlinenot only to local patrons but to library patrons statewide.Resource sharing is important to small libraries withlimited budgets. Small libraries need to automate tobring them up to today’s standards so that they can beviable in their communities and in the larger library world.
We will review the following during thiscourseFirst steps Weeding Learning vocabulary and acronyms PlanningRetrospective Conversion/Data ConversionSelecting an Automation Software (ILS/LMS)
WeedingWeeding your collection is one of the first and mostimportant steps in the automation process.You don’t want to spend money and time creatingcomputer records for books that haven’t circulated inyears, are old and out-dated, and have no value to yourlibrary.An excellent weeding process, CREW, has beendeveloped by the Texas State Library and ArchivesCommission.
CREWDownload the PDF of CREW: A Weeding Manual for Modern Libraries
WeedingThe Crew (Continuous Review, Evaluation, andWeeding) Guidelines, developed by the Texas StateLibrary and Archives Commission is a system thathas worked for libraries nationwide for over 30 years.It is a library’s responsibility to maintain a collectionthat is free from outdated, obsolete, shabby, or nolonger useful items. You can read through the CREWManual and use it as a guideline to develop your ownpolicy for weeding your collection for your automationproject and weeding after automation.
Weeding using CREWThe system uses a numbering system that consists of:Copyright date (the age of material in the book.)The last time the book was used or checked outNegative factors, called MUSTIE factors are also usedto evaluate whether an item should be weeded. If thebook is: Misleading, Ugly, Superseded, Trivial, Irrelevant, oravailable Elsewhere through interlibrary loan orreciprocal borrowing.
WeedingA rule of thumb held by many library professionals is thatabout 5% of the collection be weeded every yearThe justification for weeding is to maintain a collectionthat is vital, relevant, and useful.The criteria for weeding a library is based upon physicalcondition, relevance of the subject, and currency of theinformation.Libraries are experiencing increasing scrutiny from thepublic and funding sources, so by establishing a policybased on a national standard allows a library to justifytheir discard practices.
Learning vocabulary and acronymsILS/LMSMARCZ39.50Retrospective/data conversionCopy CatalogingOPACBarcode symbology
ILS or LMSAn Integrated Library System (ILS) or a LibraryManagement System (LMS) is software used by alibrary to track books, patrons, overdues, inventory, etc.An ILS/LMS is usually built on a database.Each patron and item has a unique ID in the databasethat allows the ILS to track its activity.
ILS or LMS InterfacesStaff and patrons interact with that database throughtwo graphical user interfaces (GUIs).This means the screens that patrons and staff see aredifferent and have different purposes.
ILS or LMSMost ILS/LMS separate software functions into modules.Each module performs a different function and has adifferent user interface.Examples of modules might include: circulation, cataloging,inventory, reports, etc.
MARC RecordsMARC -MAchine-Readable Cataloging - MARC wasdeveloped by the Library of Congress.It is a standard way of putting the description of a bookor other item (audiocassette, DVD, etc.) into a machinereadable (computer) record to permit sharing withanother machine (computer).
MARC RecordsA MARC record is a precise description of an item, whichmakes it very useful in automated systems and sharedcatalog systems.MARC allows any system to use the same record-whatever automated system you choose, the MARCrecord can be read by the system, and it will knowexactly how and where to find the author and the title,etc.
What does a MARC record look like?
The MARC record looks like this in an onlinecatalog J523.48 Scott, Elaine. 1940When is a planet not a planet? : the story ofPluto / by Elaine Scott. - New York : ClarionBooks, c2007.43 p. : ill. (some col.) ; 26 cm.Explains how advancements in technology havechanged our understanding of the universe and whythe number of planets in the solar system went downfrom nine to eight.Includes bibliographical references and index.ISBN 9780618898329 (lib. bdg.) : ISBN 0618898328(lib. bdg.) : 17.001. Pluto (Planet)523.482006100684 DLC
MARC RecordsMARC records play an important part in a library’s abilityto share its collection with other libraries. It is one of theways that all the different ILS/LMS automation softwarecan have a common way to represent a library’scollection in a computerized format.MARC allows the records of many different libraries tocome together in a union catalog. At the same time thatit provides standard format, it allows for flexibility forindividual libraries--you can add your own holdingsinformation, call number, notations, etc.
MARC RecordsFor more information about MARC records seeUnderstanding MARC Bibliographic: Machine-ReadableCataloging at the Library of Congress website:http://www.loc.gov/marc/umb/
What is Z39.50 and what does it do?Z39.50 is a standard that defines how computers searchin library catalogs. The Library of Congress is theMaintenance Agency and Registration Authority for thisstandard.Z39.50 is designed to enable communication betweencomputer systems such as those used to manage librarycatalogs.It is a set of rules and standards that allow searching andretrieving information between different computersystems.You’ll see “Z39.50 compliant” listed in automationsoftware brochures.
Z39.50 – Clients and ServersZ39.50 is a client/server based service and protocol forinformation retrieval. It is used to retrieve databaserecords, and perform related information retrievalfunctions for interlibrary loan, MARC retrieval, etc.An ILS or LMS may have a Z39.50 client that cancommunicate with a Z39.50 server to download MARCrecords.
Retrospective Conversion/Data ConversionThe process of converting information from a traditionalcard catalog to an electronic format is often calledretrospective conversion.You use the paper records that you have (a shelf list,card catalog, or the books themselves) to create thecomputerized record (MARC).This process is time consuming when the library usesstaff or volunteers for this portion of the automationprocess.This process is expensive when you pay the ILS/LMSsoftware company or another third party company to dothis for your library.
Copy CatalogingThese days converting your library’s collection is easierthan in the past because most ILS/LMS either offer theservice (for a price) or offer access to databases whereyou can “copy” and download a MARC record for a bookin your collection.This is called Copy Cataloging.
Copy Cataloging part twoCopy Cataloging is the process of building uponsomeone else’s original cataloging.A library staff person or volunteer can be trained tomatch the library’s item, catalog card or shelf list recordto one that can be downloaded via the Internet anduploaded into your automation program.The Library of Congress as well as many other statesystems allow you to access their catalogs and “copy”the record and add it to your collection.
Copy Cataloging part threeMany ILS/LMS software provide access to Z39.50compliant catalogs from which you can download MARCrecords.Most cataloging in small libraries today use this methodrather than create an original cataloging record for everyitem in the library’s collection.Vendors offer copy cataloging resources for a price if it isnot included in your ILS/LMS.
OPAC - Online Public Access CatalogThe OPAC replaces your card catalog.An Online Public Access Catalog is an electronic "cardcatalog" with access through a computer.OPACs allow searches by author, title, subject headingand keyword.The keyword search is a powerful tool for the user to findbooks when they may not know the title or appropriatesubject heading.The subject heading “cookery” isn’t as user friendly asthe term “cookbook”. Keyword searching provides libraryusers with a more flexible way to search library catalogs.
More Definition Resources The Information Professional's ary.htmlOnline Dictionary for Library and Information Sciencehttp://www.abc-clio.com/ODLIS/odlis A.aspx
Planning for the Automation ProcessPre-planning should include discussions among staff,trustees and others Why do you want to automate?What will you try to accomplish in what time frame?What will your budget be?How much staff time can you dedicate?
Planning for the Automation ProcessEstablish a TimetableMake sure to allow some flexibilitySet realistic goals and milestonesYour timetable will be determined bybudget, staff and volunteer time.
Planning: DiscussionsDiscuss the automation project with staff andboard/trustees, town manager.Make sure everyone understands the work involved andmoney needed for success.Discuss what kind of staff time and budget money youcan free up for this process.Consider writing a grant to cover all or some costs.Although automation saves some time when checkingout books and cataloging, many of those tasks arereplaced by other work required by the software.Automating your library will provide your patrons betteraccess, provide accurate statistics and allow sharingyour resources with other libraries.
Some other considerationsHow many items do you have in your collection? Oftenthe cost of an ILS/LMS is dependent on collection size.(Remember the importance of weeding!)Research ILS/LMS software Use the web to do research Visit vendors at state or national conferences Visit other libraries in your area to see how systemswork.
Beginning the RetrospectiveConversion/Data ConversionWhat resources do you have to begin theautomation process? Do you have “printed” a card catalog?Do you have a Shelf list?Will you use the actual book or item tolocate a computerized MARC record?
Paying for ConversionWill you pay a vendor for the conversion or do it yourself? If you choose your software vendor or a third partyvendor to do the conversion it will be quicker but willcost .40 - 1.50 per book/item. A collection of 5,000 books can cost between 2,000- 7500. 20,000 books? 8,000 - 30,000. AV material records usually have higher conversioncosts.
Paying for Conversion ContinuedPaying a vendor to convert your shelf listor card catalog is a more straightforwardprocess.Many companies that sell ILS/LMSsoftware also offer conversion services.This may or may not be a cost effectivesolution for your library.Make sure you compare third partyconversion vendor quotes to those of theILS/LMS software company. You may beable to negotiate a lower cost.
Third Party Vendors for ive:http://home.marcive.com/There are many other vendors that provide this service.Check with your State Library for more resources thatmay be available to you.
Alternatives to Paying for Conversion:Do it yourself ? – this is very labor intensive;volunteers and or staff must be trained; it cantake multiple years.What is your time table?
Getting a Head Start with ConversionYou can start your automation project now with newbook purchases. Purchase MARC records from yourbook vendor. For example: Baker and Taylor suppliesMARC records for an additional fee.See: http://www.btol.com/ps details.cfm?id 340Check with your book supplier about obtaining MARCrecords for the books you purchase. You will then have aMARC records for every new book that comes into yourlibrary.
Reducing Conversion CostsCan the costs of conversion be reduced? Yes, first byweeding your collection. Libraries hate to throw awaybooks but during an automation project every book keptin the collection represents a cost.What is the “cost” to keep, shelve and create a MARCrecord for a book that hasn’t left the library in 5-20years?
Money in Weeded BooksBooks sales! The amount of money you get for eachbook sold could cover the cost of a MARC record for abook kept in the collection.Paperback swaps (online and locally)Sell weeded books online. See this document Innovative Ways Of Getting Rid Of Books created by aMaine ation/ridbks.doc
Catalog on the GoCataloging “as you go” or on the fly is an option that youcan incorporate that works well to get books thatcirculate converted sooner.As you methodically go through your collection to createrecords you also make sure that every book that isreturned to the library after being checked out isimmediately converted before it goes back on the shelf.
Selecting Automation SoftwareYou should know what you need and want based onyour planning process and discussionsBasics – Circulation and CatalogBeyond basics – Reports, serials, Internet access to yourcatalog via the web,
Additional Considerations for SchoolLibrariesSchool libraries – what systems do other schools in thedistrict use? Other schools like you? Schools inneighboring districts?Make sure that the OPAC offers a Visual Searchcomponent for younger children in elementary schools.Look for an ILS/LMS that has specific functions ormodules for schools that compliment learning and schoolmanagement.
Selecting Software: What to Look forReal MARC record creationAccess to MARC records to match, download, andimportCatalog (online and web-based)Circulation – ease of useCan you download a trial? Watch a web demonstration?Do you want an Inventory feature (and need hardware todo that?)
More to Look forReports (for statistical purposes, over due books, etc.)Do you want to print your own barcodesBackups – is this built in? How is it done? How youbackup all your data is very IMPORTANT!!Tech Support Annual fees for support/software updates – it is veryimportant to budget for annual support.Other modules (Serials management, etc.)
Key Factors in SelectionSelect automation software that creates real MARCrecords.It is also important that the software you select canexport your collection in MARC format.Some smaller and inexpensive “automation” and“catalog card creation” software don’t use true MARCformat.If you are going to automate your library ensure that yourefforts are not wasted by creating records that aren’tcompatible and can’t be exported into another system.It is an important consideration for the future if yourlibrary ‘s collection will be added to a regional or statecatalog.
Other Purchases?If you purchase an ILS/LMS that is not remotely hostedyou will need a server. Server and server software (client/server) Server – up-front high costs, maintenance and techexpertise needed locally; client licenses needed? Do you have the expertise on your staff to manage aserver? Do you have funds to pay for a technology companyto provide support?
More Purchases ?Do you need hardware for public access catalogs?Do you have a website for an online catalog?Will you need to upgrade staff computers to handle thenew software?Do you have a computer you can dedicate to circulation?
Remote Hosting (Off-site)Some ILS/LMS are hosted by the vendor and all systemswork through a web-based interface.This interface communicates over the Internet to theserver for every circulation transaction, catalog search,etc.With remote hosting you have higher yearly costs forsubscription but no costs to purchase a server.The backups and installation are done by vendorAll browser based; platform independent (PC or Mac)
Pros and Cons of Remote HostingNo investment in a serverNo “super techie” expertise needed at the local levelHigher per year costs to hostLower initial costsLower staff costsLower local tech support costsBut if the Internet connection is lost you have to have aplan to circulate manually
In-House Server softwareMost ILS systems require server software.They won’t run on XP/Vista/Windows 7 computers.You will need to purchase server software for anILS/LMS that you are running on-site in your library.Costs for server software can exceed 600 (for Microsoftserver products).Look for Microsoft server software at a discount fromTech Soup Stock- 31. http://www.techsoup.org/stock/
Linux versus WindowsLinux is an alternative to WindowsLocal expertise needed for installationLower software costsStill need local technology support after installationStaff must learn enough about the new operating systemto navigate.Open source ILS like Evergreen and Koha can run onLinux.
Open SourceWhat is Open Source software?The software is free to use and alter.Support is via the web (wikis, discussion boards, websites)Is an Open Source ILS a good idea for your library?Some libraries use an Open Source ILS but pay acompany for tech support, installation, service, etc.
Open Source ILSEvergreenKohaOPALSOpenBiblio
Prices and Software InformationThese cost under 600 and just offer a very basic, no frillssolutionLibrary World - 425.00 (2012) per year (includes onlinesupport)-web-based; no server; patrons access tocatalog via the Internet. http://www.libraryworld.comResourceMate – initial cost 395- 595 (multi-user);yearly fee of 90. No web access for patrons.http://www.resourcemate.com/
More Sophisticated SoftwareCosts vary and depend on collection size, support selected,etc.Mandarin M3 (public and school llo (Small and medium public /OPALS (School library focus)http://www.mediaflex.net/Koha (LibLime)http://www.liblime.com/liblimekoha
Higher Cost SoftwareMost of the software listed below are used by both public and schoollibraries or have a version for public libraries and a different versionfor school libraries. They have more bells and whistles.Destiny - Follett http://www.follettsoftware.com/Concourse, Atriuum - Book Systemshttp://www.atriuum.net/Alexandria - COMPanion Corporationhttp://www.goalexandria.com/Surpass – Surpass iver- Softlink http://www2.softlinkint.com
Comprehensive Lists of ILS or LMSSoftwareYou can check these other resources:Library Technology Guides:http://www.librarytechnology.org/Comparison /compare.shtml
Further Evaluation of ILS/LMSFree downloads, trialsOnline demos and webinarsScheduled online demonstrations by vendorsConferencesVisits to libraries running the software
After you select your softwarePlease read the manual Install the software (not needed if you are using a webbased product)Configure your softwareOrder barcodes, scanners, etc.Add patronsPurchase and barcode library cardsBegin adding MARC records
Reading the manualThe manual won’t answer all your questionsbut it will be a great help as you go throughthe process of setting up your software.If the manual is online you may want to printsections for staff and volunteers.It is worthwhile reading and/or scanning themanual before making final configurationdecisions.
Installing softwareWeb-based products that use a remote web host won’trequire any installation but will have to be configured.Other products will have to be installed.Unless you are confident working with servers andinstallations you may want to hire someone to do theinstallation.Remember that installing the software and configuringthe software are two different processes
Configuring softwareConfiguring the software involves a variety of steps anddecisions. Each software will handle this differently butyou will have to set up the software to reflect yourlibrary’s policies and practices.It is good practice to record the username andpasswords for the software and file in a safe place. ManyILS programs have different usernames and passwordsfor different functions.
Configuration StepsSet up Barcode rangesSet Circulation policies and practicesCreate Patron typesSet up Item types/Material typesSet up Printers, scanners, etc.
BarcodesBarcodes may look similar but have different“symbologies”.The most common barcode symbologies used inlibraries are Codabar (or Code-A-Bar) and Code 39 (orCode 3 of 9). These look different from UPC barcodesthat you see on store items.Before you order barcodes, find out what symbologyworks with your software.
BarcodesYou will need to purchase pre-printed barcodes ordecide whether you will print your own barcodes.Pre-printed barcodes are more durable although the costis higher.You can purchase barcodes from library supplycompanies like Brodart and Demco. You can also findgood deals on the web from discounters such as BarCode Discount Warehouse.Library items should not be barcoded before the libraryhas chosen its ILS/LMS!
“Decoding” a BarcodeCodabar library barcodes consist of a string of 14 digits:You can learn more about barcodesat All About Library library-labeling.htm
Barcode Application Barcode labels can be placed on the inside or outside ofthe item. There are advantages and disadvantages towhere the label is placed on the item.Inside or Outside ? Placing the barcode label on the outside of the coveris useful for inventory purposes and fast check-outwithout having to open the book. Placing the barcode label on the inside back coverendpaper protects the barcode. If your library usesdate due slips or date stamps this may increasecheck-out efficiency.
Circulation PoliciesBelow is a list of items that will probably have to beconfigured in the circulation area:Loan length for different material types (example: videosversus books)Number of renewals allowedFines
Circulation Policies (cont.)Below is a list of items that will probably have to beconfigured in the circulation area:Staff privileges for access to different parts of thesoftwareCan the patron request a hold or renewal via the webcatalog if that is available? What email will that requestgo to? Will you have to set up a new email account thatvarious staff can log into for these requests?
Decide on Patron TypesDo you want to set up different patron types?Think about gathering statistics before setting uppatron types. Adult Young Adult Juvenile Non-resident Staff Other ?
Item/Material TypesItem or material types are the "categories" into whichyour library items are divided.Give this some thought. Circulation rules, statistics,catalog searches, and other software functions arebased on these categories once they are set up.
Item/Material Types (cont.)Do you want categories for DVDs, videocassettes, audiobooks?For ease in gathering of statistics for federal annualreport do you want material types for Children, YoungAdult, Magazines, etc.?
Printers, Scanners, etc.There will also be a place to set up printers, bar codescanners, wands, etc, that can be used for the software.Before purchasing a scanner make sure it can beconfigured to read the barcode symbology supported byyour software.
Add PatronsBegin entering your patrons into the software so you cancreate their barcoded library card.Do not automatically assign a barcode to every patronyou currently have listed. Some of your patrons mayhave moved or are no longer living.Clean up your patron records and get current addressand phone number information for your currently activepatrons.Be sure to collect your patron’s email address! Most ILSsoftware allows you to email overdue notices and othernews.
Cataloging and Adding RecordsThe steps for this process will vary a bit from software tosoftware.Most ILS software has a built in cataloging module thatallows you to easily download free MARC records.Usually you can scan the ISBN/EAN barcode from theback of the book to search a Z39.50 catalog, match theitem and download the MARC record.Once downloaded you will need to enter your “localinformation” like the Dewey Call number.Remember that some of the best sources for MARCrecords on the Internet are free.
Adding Items/BooksYou can import the files from the third party vendor whodid your conversion.If you are doing the conversion yourself or adding newbooks begin by scanning the ISBN number. Find thematching MARC record, save or download and thenimport into your ILS/LMS. Some systems allow you tocreate batches of MARC records to upload. Othersrequire you load one at a time.You will have to add your local Call Number informationin the MARC tag required by your software.
To sum up.The process to automate a small library is the same asautomating a large library.Although the scope is smaller it library to dedicate thetime and resources needed is still a challengingendeavor for any small.But in today’s technologically sophisticated world alibrary that is not yet automated, or has decided not toautomate, is simply a reading room. Today, people’sexpectations of what can be done online is very high.Without an automation system a library can’t even begintravelling down the path to meet those expectations.
Good luck with your automation project!This short course doesn’t cover every step andconsideration but will hopefully provide enoughinformation to give your library a solid foundationon which to build your automation project.
We will review the following during this . has worked for libraries nationwide for over 30 years. It is a library's responsibility to maintain a collection that is free from outdated, obsolete, shabby, or no . Barcode symbology . ILS or LMS An Integrated Library System (ILS) .
