This document discusses library processing and automation. It defines processing as everything done to an item after it is acquired by a library until it is shelved, including cataloging, labeling, and numbering. Technical processing refers to activities like cataloging and physical processing done behind the scenes. The document also discusses library automation, defined as using computers and networks in libraries, and how it has expanded over time to include functions like acquisitions, cataloging, circulation, and serials control. Open source library systems are presented as alternatives to proprietary systems.
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Processing
Everything done to a bibliographic
item after it is acquired by a library,
before it is placed on the shelf,
including accessioning, cataloging,
stamping, labeling, numbering,
jacketing, etc. In some libraries,
items in process are identified as such
in the online catalog. The user may
request that processing be expedited
if an item is urgently needed.
Compare with technical processing.
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technical processing
All the activities and processes
concerned with acquiring,
organizing, preparing, and
maintaining library collections,
including cataloging and physical
processing, usually accomplished
"behind the scenes" by the technical
services department of a library.
When the department is
understaffed, arrears may
accumulate. See also: centralized
processing.
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The process of processing materials
Sample procedure
Your mileage will vary, of
course, because every
library does things a little
differently!
7. Policies for processing procedures
Why? Because written policies:
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What is Library Automation?
Library automation can be defined
simply as the use of computer and
networking technologies in the library.
School Library Automation
By K.T. Lam for the In-service Training
Course for Teacher-Librarians Organized by
the HK Education Department
9. library automation
The design and implementation of ever
more sophisticated computer systems to
accomplish tasks originally done by hand in
libraries. Beginning in the 1960s with the
development of the machine-readable
catalog record (MARC), the process of
automation has expanded to include the
core functions of acquisitions, cataloging
and authority control, serials control,
circulation and inventory, and interlibrary
loan and document delivery.
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Basic elements in automation
The CIRCULATION SYSTEM tracks the
status of all LMC materials that circulate.
The ONLINE CATALOG provides instant
access to catalog records as well as inventory
data and brief acquisitions records via powerful
interactive searching and help capabilities.
The ACQUISITIONS SYSTEM manages
ordering functions, from entering order data
through claiming items ordered but not
received.
SERIALS CHECK-IN maintains records of
journals, magazines, and other items received
periodically.
Automation for the School Library Media Center.
ERIC Digest Publication Date: 1990-11-00
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Top Recommended Sites
Library of Congress Online Catalogs(No. 1)
ACCESS PENNSYLVANIA (No. 2)
Highly Recommended
12. Follett’s Destiny 11.0 release heightens support
of digital learning
Follett announced the release of Destiny 11.0 with significant
improvements to help create an interactive, digital learning
environment with Follett eBooks, as well as continue to
dramatically drive library efficiency. A key feature of Destiny
11.0 addresses the improvements Follett made to its capabilities
for using eBooks and mobile devices to support digital learning,
including a Destiny Quest mobile app for Kindle Fire devices to
further support the 21st century learner. The app currently
supports users of Apple and Android devices.
• MCHENRY, Ill., March 26, 2013
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Other automation systems for school libraries
now part of
Via for K-12 Libraries
Atriuum School Library Software
Web-based Library Automation
14. Alternatives to proprietary systems
The Case for Open Source Software in the
Library Market
Solutions based on freely distributed software will
give libraries another choice for obtaining the support
services that best meet the needs of their users.
Many library applications are expensive and not
responsive enough to the needs of libraries and their
users. This is not the fault of libraries or of library
software vendors, almost all of which try very hard
within the present market conditions to develop
good products and services. But current marketing
practices serve as a barrier to cost reduction and to
the enhancement of product quality that could
occur with different marketing practices.
• Ubiquity, Volume 4, Issue 47, Jan. 28 - Feb. 3, 2004
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See also
“Open
Minds, Open
Books, Open
Source”
15. Some Open Source Library Systems
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OPALS Open-source Automated Library System is a powerful
cooperatively developed, Web-based, open source program.
This alternative technology provides Internet access to
information databases, library collections and digital archives.
Many school, college, research, business, religious and library
union catalogs (that provide ILL services) use OPALS. There is
no need to install software or purchase expensive computer
hardware or software licenses to implement this powerful,
turnkey Internet accessible system.
