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.

...

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. 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.

...

• For the protection of our collections materials, no food or beverages (other than water) are allowed in the work area.
  
• Water must be kept in a preservation-approved Contigo Travel Mug and stored on a surface away from collections (ex: on the floor, on supply shelves).

Safe Handling Guidelines

(Adapted from "Care & Handling Orientation for New Staff" handouts)

Hand Washing

• Wash hands after eating, and after handling materials that will transfer dirt or grime to other materials (eg. red rot).
• Don't use hand creams while working, and avoid touching your face if you are wearing makeup.
  

...

• Always use two hands.
  
• Don't grab too many items at a time. (If it all feels like too many, it's too many!)
• Have a "landing space" for what you are pulling.
• Grasp the middle of the book or the top middle of the text block (not the head cap).
• Ask for help with oversize materials, if necessary.
• Use a block to prop up items on the shelves. Have a block ready before you begin.
  

...