Table of Contents

Introduction to Books End-Processing

“Books” in our Section's case is inclusive of all printed materials, as well as other media not processed by the Manuscript Section, such as Poetry Room audiovisual items. The majority of the unit’s responsibility is in end-processing cataloged printed materials: books, serials, broadsides, prints, etc. In short, end-processing entails labeling, casing (when needed), barcoding, and delivering materials to the appropriate location for the future use of library users. Accurate end-processing is essential for the discoverability, accessibility, and security of Houghton’s holdings now and in the future.

End-Processing Responsibilities

• Ensure that all items received are properly labeled, barcoded, and safely routed to the correct location in a timely manner.
• Ensure that all items that require it are properly housed.
• Notify the Technical Services Librarian and/or cataloging staff of any issues that arise.
• Keep detailed statistics of items end-processed.

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The unit uses a variety of software to help process materials effectively:

Alma - Alma is the Integrated library system (ILS) used Harvard Library-wide; it’s where records for materials are created and changed. The unit uses it to create new bibliographic, holdings, and item records, and to generate labels and apply barcode information.

Aeon - Aeon is the circulation management system used by Houghton that helps manage the circulation activities of our materials. All departments use it to communicate location changes of items in the library. Books End-Processing changes the location of items fully end-processed to “Request Finished” and then delivers the items for shelving.

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Microsoft Word - This program is the main word processing software used by the unit and the program where all label templates are created and shared with one another. It is used in conjunction with Alma to generate labels and assorted documents.

Call number/Classification Schemes

Two main classification schemes are used at Houghton Library: Houghton-established classifications and Library of Congress classification. Another classification scheme you may encounter with some older Houghton materials is the Old Widener classification system, which is similar to but different from the Houghton scheme <link to Widener classes>. Visit the Houghton class schemes page for more information.

(NB: In Houghton classes an asterisk (*) was once used to denote Houghton ownership. Typically, the asterisk preceded the Houghton class call number. In the case of Widener transfers retaining a Widener call number, the asterisk may appear at the end of the number. Always follow formatting found on the routing slip; if a question arises, consult the cataloger of the material.  An asterisk also used to precede the accession number on ownership labels.)

Guidelines for Student Workers

Scheduling - General

• Student work hours are between 9 and 5pm, Monday through Friday.
• Shifts should be at least 2 hours in length.
• We will set up a schedule at the beginning of the term.
• Houghton Library is closed on national holidays, even when classes are in session.

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