Barcode Placement

BACKGROUND: Since 1978 when the University Library began barcoding the collection, the barcodes have been placed in several positions and several places in items. The consistency has been adequate at best. The circulation of materials is slowed down when numerous positions must be looked at to find the barcode. Also, when automated inventory programs are run against the collection, each item must be completely removed off of the stack shelving to be opened, scanned, and then replaced. This takes considerable time.

SCOPE: To assist with automation and the consistency of application of barcodes, this instruction sheet has been created. It will assist with speedy circulation of materials and also with inhouse inventory programs when they are eventually purchased and run. This procedure will commence on May 15, 2003.

Part I. Materials and Locations Affected

1. The following is a list of materials that are covered under this instruction sheet:
   
   New Monographs
   New Linked Serials
   Older materials not linked but will be linked in future
   Older serials not linked but will be linked in future
   Materials where the barcode has fallen off and is replaced
   


 
2. Locations that are affected:
   
   Maag Stacks
   Maag Reference
   MMC
   Archives (when deemed possible)
   Serials/Periodicals
   CRC
   Government Documents (Already performing for some time)
   

Part II. General Placement

1. General placement of the barcode for materials will be the upper left hand corner of the item:



1. 1/4th inch from top of cover.
2. 1/4th inch from left hand side of cover. (Past the “gutter” of hardbound books)



2. Barcodes will be placed underneath the Kapco cover for paperbacks.



3. Barcodes will be on the jacket cover, but underneath the plastic jacket.



4. Items that require message labels to check for accompanying materials will be placed underneath the barcode on the cover.
   
   The Catalog Department will not be concerned with covering illustrations, titles, letter, etc. The title proper is always from the Title Page of an item.



5. No changes in placement of Date Due slips, processing date stamp, or other stamped messages (i.e., Library Use Only, Property stamp, etc.)

Part III. Exceptions

1. Some exceptions will apply, usually on a case by case basis. But the following materials will have the barcode placed in a different location:
• Compact discs (Musical Sound recordings receive two barcode, one on case and one on CD itself.
• Portfolio cases (cases with flaps and ties)
• Pocket cases that contain music with parts.
• Materials that do not lend themselves to being barcoded on the exterior. (This will be a case-by-case basis)
• Special Collections
• Reserves
• University Archives

Question?

Created 16 May 2003
Questions or comments: email Jeffrey Trimble