I-Share Resource Management Training Session 4: Managing Physical Inventory

CARLI’s I-Share Resource Management Training series focuses on how libraries may manage collections and metadata in Alma effectively, with an emphasis on Alma’s functionalities for management of physical and electronic resources. This series will cover many topics that involve cataloging as well as the interaction of metadata with other library system functions, such as acquisitions, circulation, and discovery. Each session will highlight different processes and workflows for completing resource management tasks in both institutional and consortial perspectives.

Series content is aimed at those who are responsible for day-to-day work with MARC metadata and inventory data in an I-Share institution. Staff that are responsible for functions in acquisitions, fulfillment, discovery, or reporting may find the information useful as well. Primary emphasis will be on taking advantage of Alma functionality to complete tasks within resource management workflows. Limited discussion on broader cataloging practice and theory may be addressed as time allows.

Each 90-minute session will consist of 55-70 minutes of presentation, with periodic spaces for questions and exploration. Attendees will be encouraged to have examples ready for hands-on practice. 

Registration will be capped at 15 attendees per session, and sessions may be selected a la carte. Each session will be recorded and made available, and it is not necessary to register to receive access to the recording. Register here.

Session 4: Managing Physical Inventory

This training session explores procedures for adding and updating physical inventory both with and without involving purchase order lines. Processes for managing the inventory data in MARC holding records and physical item records will be described for single items and for multiple item resources such as serials. The relationship between item record coding and fulfillment will be discussed.

• Adding inventory for single items.
• Adding inventory for multi-part items.
• MARC holding record standards
• Templates: holding records, item records
• Using Alma shelf list functions
• Receiving inventory for purchase order lines
• Receiving serial items
• Temporary locations
• Item data and fulfillment
• Relinking inventory
• Withdrawing inventory