What purpose do the bar codes serve and why are they important?

The inherent nature of libraries as repositories of information and data makes them ideally suited to bar code technology and automation. To effectively administer a library system and its inventory, there is a requirement for a tool that can provide quick and easy access to this information. The key to unlocking this data is a quality bar code label. It offers the most efficient and accurate method of capturing and accessing information in a cost-effective matter.
Although bar code labels are the most inexpensive element of the automation system, it is important to keep in mind that they are also the most significant factor in ensuring the successful operation of the system. For this reason, it is essential to make certain that your bar codes provide a high percentage first scan read-rate and that they are protected from abrasion by an overlaminate to provide years of use.

What information is important for your software?

As mentioned, most library automation software is compatible with various standard library symbologies. If you are unsure about this at all, contact your software vendor or work with your bar code supplier. There may also be requirements for specific information to be encoded within the bar code. Often special letters or numbers are required to designate bar code use (i.e. Patron or Circulation bar codes). System software may also require a specific library number or institution code in order to be utilized correctly.

What are the main terms you need to know?

For a full list of terms please go to our glossary section. However, here are the main terms a library needs to be familiar with.

Assigned Library Number
This is your four digit assigned library code which is used to identify your institution. It is usually only used with codabar and code 39 symbologies.

Code 3 of 9
A type of bar code symbology, code 3 of 9 is a self checking, variable length symbology than can readily be printed by a variety of technologies. Every code 39 character has five bars and four spaces for a total of nine elements. It was the first alphanumeric symbology to be developed.

Check Digit
A character included within a string of data whose value is used for the purpose of performing a mathematical check to ensure the accuracy of the data. The standard for libraries is the Standard Mod 10 check digit which can be used with codabar and code 3 of 9 symbologies.

Follett
Interleaved 2 of 5
A high density, self-checking, continuous numeric symbology. It has been mainly used in the distribution industry, however the library sector may refer to this as a Follett bar code.

Protector
Protectors are usually used in a library to protect the bar code label from repeated scans. If a laminated label is purchased from DIS, there is no need for a protector.

Quiet Zone
A clear space, containing no dark marks, that precedes the start character of a bar code symbol, and follows the stop characters. Sometimes called the clear area.

Record Type
Indicates what or where the bar code may be used for. Standard patron labels have a "2" if using codabar or code 3 of 9 and a "P" if using Interleaved 2 of 5 (Follett). Item labels have a "3" or "T" as the first character.

Sequential Number
The sequential number used to identify each patron or item.

Start and Stop Characters
A special bar code character that provides the scanner with start and stop read instructions as well as scanning direction indicator. For codabar symbology the start and stop characters can be either A, B, C or D. For a code 3 of 9 bar code, the start and stop characters are always "*". Libraries using codabar should always know the start and stop characters before ordering.

Symbology
A type of bar code. (ie. Codabar, Code 3 of 9, Interleaved 2 of 5, UPC etc.)