| MultiLIS libraries already using 14-digit Codabar or Code 39 Mod 10
barcodes will not need to re-barcode. Libraries converting from a library automation
system other than MultiLIS will need to check with their DASite as to the compatibility of
their existing systems’ barcodes. INFOhio will require libraries using Sirsi K-12
software to adhere to current INFOhio 14-digit barcode standards which use either Codabar
or Code 39 Mod 10 barcode symbology. These standards specify that the first digit of
patron barcodes will be a '2' and the first digit of item barcodes will be a '3.' Barcode positions 2-5 must contain a unique 4-digit
institution code assigned by either the DASite or INFOhio. Positions 6-13 must contain a
unique, non-duplicate number assigned to each item. Digit 14 is a calculated numeric check
digit based on the Mod 10 algorithm.
INFOhio will continue with requiring either Code 39 Mod 10 or Codabar barcodes
for the following reasons:
1) Code 39 mod 10 barcodes are the preferred symbology by Sirsi (although the
Codabar also work well).
2) A consistent and uniform format ultimately helps DASite staff and school
libraries when dealing with book vendors, testing and setting up of equipment, test scans
of barcode labels, etc.
3) Code 39 Mod 10 is consistent with format of current routines for generating
dumb/smart patron/item barcodes.
4) If additional barcodes symbologies are used, then sites will have to use Sirsi
Barcode Policies. (If we stick with our two standard INFOhio barcodes, sites do not have
to use Barcode Policies.)
5) Sites using Barcode Policies are limited to five policies per server.
6) Barcode Policies usually require barcode scanners to be programmable for a
pre- and post-amble code. (Because many older scanners do not support the pre- and
post-amble codes, this would eliminate the use of these otherwise compatible scanners for
current MultiLIS customers.)
7) Code 39 Mod 10 is beneficial to libraries participating in MORE (state-wide
resource sharing), as barcodes within their local MultiLIS or Sirsi K-12 system are
guaranteed to be unique and not duplicates with possible borrowed items from other
libraries.
8) INFOhio barcodes are unique to each library because of the 4-digit institution
code. Although each district's data will continue to be isolated from any another district
in Sirsi K-12, INFOhio must always be looking to the future.
INFOhio views standard barcodes as a necessary guideline for implementing Sirsi
K-12 across the state while maintaining an open vision for the future of the INFOhio
project. |
