Processing

Marc and I are strategizing on the best ways to simplify our procedure. As of now we have no fewer than six steps to completing an accession of an unexamined book:

1. Search for the book in OCLC
2. Create a record in the DA database using the text itself and OCLC information (multiple steps)
3. Create a tag for the book with call number, title, and OCLC #
4. Pencil the call number inside the front cover of the text
5. Stamp the tag with a "completed" symbol in blue
6. Shelve the book

These steps are not overwhelming, but a few issues are in the way: 1) the pre-database volumes, 2) local call number creation strategy, 3) call number stickering, and 4) the limitations of the database which will not allow for more than one worker to enter books at one time.

1)Before the current database was completed, we did extensive amounts of work searching for books in OCLC and discovering patterns to help shape the new database. We have come to realize that all these pre-database volumes will need to be re-searched in OCLC, entered into the DA database, penciled, re-marked with a "complete" symbol, and shelved. 2, 3) We are still missing a step for creating a call-number sticker, which will be a great asset to the library users, and also a method for creating localized headings for these books. We have brainstormed about the sticker inclusion of the full LCCN + a three letter interior tag, like "FUR" for furniture, "CER" for ceramics, etc., but would greatly appreciate insight regarding established patterns for local holdings. Additionally, it may be of use to reserve the full LCCN for the database, and create a different method for the shelving stickers, perhaps something simplified for maintenance by non-librarians.
4) The database limitations have proven more difficult to overcome. We both feel that working together is incredibly helpful, but we must come up with a way to divide the work if only one of us can enter the volumes in a shift. We thought perhaps Marc could print OCLC records, and I enter the data, but this seems inefficient (both sets of eyes must look at each book). Is there another solution? We both feel that the cataloging experience is key, and each should work with the database, but we are stumped as to the best division of our time and talents.