Technical Processing

After purchasing new materials for the library, the technical processing phase begins. It involves a series of activities that prepare the acquired items to be accessible and usable by library users. This phase is crucial for organizing and cataloging the materials efficiently.

The steps involved in the technical processing of library acquisitions:

  • Cataloging: Cataloging is the process of creating bibliographic records for each item acquired by the library. These records contain essential information about the item, such as title, author, publisher, publication date, subject headings, and other relevant details. Our technical staffs use standard rules and formats, such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) format, to ensure consistency and compatibility with the library’s integrated library system (ILS).
  • Classification: Classification involves assigning call numbers to items based on their subjects. The call number is a unique identifier that helps organize and shelve the items in a systematic order. For classification of materials, we are following Dewey Decimal Classification Scheme, 20th edition.
  • Labeling and Barcoding: Each physical item receives a label displaying its call number for easy identification on the shelves. Additionally, a barcode of Accession Number is affixed to the item, linking it to its bibliographic record in the library’s ILS.
  • Data Entry: The cataloging information, including bibliographic records, call numbers, and barcodes, is entered into the library’s database or ILS. This process allows users to search and locate items through the library’s catalog through online system.
  • Quality Control: Throughout the technical processing phase, quality control is essential to verify the accuracy of the cataloging data and ensure that all steps have been completed correctly.
  • Integration with the Collection: Once the technical processing is complete, the materials are integrated into the library’s collection, either physically shelved or added to the appropriate electronic resource databases, making them accessible to library users.
  • Maintenance and Updates: Library continuously review and update their catalogs and databases to reflect changes in the collection, such as items being checked out, returned, or withdrawn from circulation. Additionally, library may receive updated editions or replacements for damaged items, requiring further technical processing.