Sender: Rare Books and Special Collections Forum <EXLIBRIS@RUTVM1.BITNET>
I have been working along on a project to get our Special Collections materials
barcoded here at the Emory University General Libraries for the last 2 1/2
years. Smart barcodes were created as part of the initial database load when
we brought up our first integrated system in August 1987, but they were not
applied to Special Collections materials initially. (We have been barcoding
currently cataloged Special Collections materials since that time.)
We use a neutral card stock tab approx. 3" wide and long enough so that the
barcode, stamp and call number are all above the text block. Since our stacks
are crowded, shelves are close together so that these tabs bend, but they are
sturdy enough not to be damaged.
Our present system (DOBIS) cannot link one physical entity to more than one
bibliographic entity, so in the case of "bound withs", etc. we have to make
separate tabs for each title.
We will be migrating to Sirsi, but I am not sure whether that system can link
one copy record to more than one bibliographic record.
I might add one small word of caution. When specs were developed for the
smart barcodes from our initial database, our preservation librarian was
concerned about the adhesive that would be used. The ones that were picked
had an adhesive that does not adhere well over time to our tabs, so that
many of them are now curling and have to be pasted down. This has been
less of a problem for the materials in the regular stacks since the pressure
of the closed book tends to hold the barcode in place.
Subsequent dumb barcodes had a better adhesive which has not (so far at least!)
separated from the tabs.
It is technically not necessary at this point to physically barcode our Special
Collections materials since they do not circulate outside of the department.
However, since we hope to someday be able to monitor our use, do automated
inventories, etc., it seemed worthwhile do go ahead and do the barcoding.
Good luck with your project!
Linda Visk
Special Collections Cataloger
Emory University
(404) 727-0121 librlv@emuvm1.Bitnet