Interactive Inventory

Goal: $15,000

Raised: $15,000

Supporters: 1

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Libraries that are engaged in active weeding are scanning shelves on a regular basis want to ensure that the collection is as accurate as possible for their patrons. We propose enhancing the inventory module so that it can provide a more interactive experience for librarians and help streamline the inventory process.

Currently, staff scan a number of item’s barcode on a shelf, in a collection and upload that file of scanned barcodes into Koha. Koha comes back with info about items with non-standard statuses, and missing/lost statuses, etc. We propose that the item data be presented to staff as they scan the barcodes, right there at the shelf!!! (For example, staff conducts the inventory with a laptop plus scanner on a cart).

Development

  • Develop a new interface for 'Interactive inventory'
  • To begin, the library will scan a book and this will be considered the 'start'
  • An option would be created to allow users to provide a manual starting callnumber
  • Staff could also select options to use Collection code or shelving location to determine upcoming/expected next books
  • Koha would display a preview upcoming books to allow librarian to visually scan shelf for next item if out of order
  • The above work will require an API route to fetch books in shelf order given configuration settings (collection/location)
  • Add options to:
    • automatically check in checked out items
    • automatically mark lost items found
    • automatically resolve return claims
    • automatically mark skipped items as missing

Expected Outcomes

  • When Koha is presenting data in real-time as the items are being scanned, the statuses that will trigger an alert or action should include:
    • Item is checked out
    • Item has a Lost status
    • Item has a Withdrawn status
    • On hold
    • Claims returned
    • In transit (alert or resolve if in transit to current branch)
    • Item belongs to a different branch
    • Item belongs to a different shelving location / call number range
    • Item is not found in catalog
    • Item is in the wrong location
  • Above list will provide an option/modal if the automatic options are not enabled
  • Return a list of missing items when completing inventory and optionally batch modify the list
  • Unmark missing a book that is found out of order on the shelf, and provide feedback to the user that it should be reshelved