Processing Books in the BEHS Library
Cathy Belben
Updated April 2003

Book Purchasing and Ordering

1.      The librarian is responsible for selecting all materials for the library.

2.      The librarian creates a list, or indicates in a catalogue, which materials are needed.

3.      The library assistant checks the order against the current library catalogue to avoid unwanted duplication.

4.      The library assistant creates a P.O. and/or orders the books.

5.      If books are to be purchased at a store, the library assistant generates and P.O. and gives the number and/or white page to the librarian to make the purchases.

Pre-Processing

1.      When a book order arrives, it goes to The librarian first. She checks the order and the books and assigns call numbers as needed.

2.      The books go to the library assistant next, and she checks the order and the packing slip against the P.O., and sends the P.O. to fiscal for payment.

3.      The library assistant assigns a barcode and enters the MARC record for the book in the computer. The barcode sticker is placed on the spine-edge of the front cover with the numbers facing the spine. Small barcode # goes on the top of the first page.

4.      The library assistant types a spine label for the book and places it at the bottom of the spine.  Spine labels appear as follows:

Processing

1.      Place a clear protective sticker over the barcode and spine label.

2.      Stamp the book in five places with the BEHS Library stamp:

-on the first page                 -on the side                  -on the bottom

-on the last page                 -on the top

3.      Place a book pocket inside on the front page or the first available blank page.  The book pocket should be stamped and it should have a security tag inside.

4.      PAPERBACKS are taped inside the front and back cover with skinny white strapping tape and the along the spine with 3 inch clear tape, and on the edges of the front and back covers with 2 inch clear tape.

5.      HARDBACKS’ covers are covered with a clear plastic cover trimmed to the appropriate size UNLESS they have a pre-printed cover with title, author, etc.

6.      Check your work-go over these steps and make sure you followed them correctly. Then initial the book in small letters inside the back cover.

Post-Processing

1.      All processed books go to the librarian BEFORE they are placed on shelves.

2.      The librarian writes booktalks and keeps a record of the new books; booktalks are also posted to the library webpage. A list of new books is emailed to the staff.

3.      The librarian checks each book for proper physical handling:

ü      security tag

ü      identification stamps

ü      cover on right side up

ü      due date card pocket in place

ü      proper and complete taping of paperbacks

ü      spine label information correct

4.      The librarian checks the MARC record for correctness and completeness

ü      information spelled correctly

ü      call number correct and complete

ü      page numbers listed

ü      series name given; matches other books in series as needed

ü      summary provided

ü      contents listed as completely as possible (titles of stories, essays, plays, etc. listed)

ü      subject headings match other books of same subject

ü      additional subject headings are added as necessary

5.      Books are checked against requests, and students/teachers are notified if a book they requested is ready for check out.

6.      New books are placed on display in the library with bookmarks.