4.1 Use an ICT-based library management system proficiently

Table of Contents

1. Automated library management systems
2. The circulation module
   1. Problems with issuing
   2. Discharging items
   3. Problems with discharging items
   4. Other circulation tasks
3. The acquisitions module
4. The cataloguing and stock management modules
5. Inter Library Loan module

The circulation module

Issuing and discharging items of library stock using an automated system is usually quick and straightforward. Sometimes the system will indicate a complexity in the transaction, eg: you are prevented from issuing an item to a borrower. Although in almost all cases the system will supply you with correct information regarding the status of the borrower and their borrowing activities, the underlying reasons may not be displayed on the screen.

However, you have to be able to explain the actions of the system to the borrower. This requires both an excellent understanding of the library authority rules (which guide the system) and the ability to access quickly the required screens of the system to find the reasons for the system's decisions.

You should have a good understanding and have had practice in the main operations of the circulation module of the system.

Let's look at each of these operations, starting with Issuing items ...

Issuing items

This is the basic action of entering the issuing details, ie: borrower and item barcodes on to the system.

Before proceeding, jot down problems that may occur with this task.

Now let's have a look at Problems with issuing ...