Smart Barcode Production

Written by Emily Garner on August 2, 2010. Posted in Database Cleanup

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ost Integrated Library Systems (ILS) use a piece-specific number printed on a label to identify the item throughout the system. The most common method is a barcode label, although some systems use OCR or RFID. MARCIVE will create barcode labels for any project.

To save work, consider having smart barcode labels created from your MARC data. We will build item fields that contain a unique number for each item and print that number on the matching barcode label (along with the book’s title, call number, and library).  

Once the bib records with item fields are loaded into your ILS, you do not have to scan the barcode. The label is ready to apply and the piece is ready to circulate.

The barcodes are printed in call number order to make the barcoding process easier.

Generic Barcode Production

At the same time, you can order generic (or “dumb”) barcodes to use for pieces that were not part of the database processing project. Generic labels look like the smart labels except lack a call number or title.

Generic barcodes are also available to libraries that are not doing a project but want barcode labels on hand for cataloging.

Item Field Build

Written by Emily Garner on August 2, 2010. Posted in Database Cleanup

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f you are implementing a new Integrated Library Systems (ILS), a work-saving way to create piece-level records is to have MARCIVE build item information fields in your MARC records. The ILS will create item records from these fields, so that your staff do not have to create holdings manually.

The standard MARC field for holdings data was established after many vendors had already created their own specifications. Each vendor has a specification sheet indicating how the data should be built, typically in fields such as 852 or 949. At a minimum, the field usually contains:

  1. barcode number (generated sequentially)
  2. location or library
  3. call number
  4. copy/volume information

However, the way the fields are built differs depending on the needs of the system (call number split, stamps or prefixes, additional fields for circulation, acquisition, or provenance data), number of libraries supplying data, source of the data (output from a legacy system, OCLC, or MARCIVE), and project (smart barcode production, reclassification, shelflist conversion, brief record upgrade, migration to a new system, or deduplication).

Database Cleanup

Written by Emily Garner on July 9, 2010. Posted in Database Cleanup

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re the problems in your database keeping you up at night? If you’re not sure how to tackle a database cleanup, give us a call. We’ll conduct a database evaluation at no charge and with no obligation.

All you have to do is send us at least 50 bibliographic records and a Database Remediation Analysis Request and we’ll send you back an evaluation of your database’s problems — what errors are evident from the sample and how they can be fixed. We’ll also provide an estimate for the cost of fixing the problems. Fixes may include:

Authorities

Many catalogs are in a relatively good shape but can benefit from Authorities Processing to:

  • update and name, subjects, and other headings consistent across your catalog.
  • bring obsolete MARC content up to current standards.
  • provide the benefits of cross-references to your patrons.

Learn more about MARCIVE’s Authority Processing services.


Brief Record Upgrade

Just because a record is in your database doesn’t mean it’s complete. With our Brief Record Upgrade Service, we’ll compare your database to the LC database and update incomplete records with subject headings and other critical data. We’ll also add your local information to the record. If a match isn’t found, we’ll fix as much as we can.

When the record upgrades are complete we’ll run your entire database through Authorities Processing to make sure everything is consistent.

Learn more about MARCIVE’s Brief Record Upgrade service.

Custom Cleanup

Have you inherited a database that was built with less than thorough standards? Has your cataloging got a little out of hand? Or do you need someone to look at your database and consult with you on how to best move forward and improve it? MARCIVE’s experienced team of database experts can help with all of these issues — and more!

Whatever help you need with your database we can likely provide. If your needs aren’t met by our standard Database Cleanup services get in touch with us and we’ll work with you to develop a custom solution that fits your unique situation.