Cataloging - Tablets

Cataloging - Tablets

About

This article covers instructions for MSC libraries cataloging tablets, such as iPads, Kindle Fires, Microsoft Surfaces, etc., whether received from the Montana State Library during COVID-19 or purchased separately.
To catalog a different device or kit using generic records, see Cataloging - Equipment/Devices.

Tablets from MSL

If your library received a tablet (iPad) from MSL during COVID-19, your library’s holding may already exist on the preferred tablet record.
To catalog a tablet (iPad)  received from MSL:
1. Open the  Call Number and Item Maintenance wizard. (Cataloging module > Common Tasks toolbar > Call Number…).
2. Search  ALL libraries by Title Control # a2669175.
3. Once the record displays, click  Modify.
4. Click the  Call Number/Item tab.
5. If your library’s holding already exists, highlight it; if it doesn't already exist, click Add Call Number and type your preferred call number, e.g. IPAD #1.
6. Update the  item ID with one of your library’s item barcodes.
7. Tablets (iPads) from MSL should have the following fields filled in:
Please open a ticket if you don't have the item categories described below and/or if you have branch libraries and would like to circulate tablets to these branches.
  1. Type: 14DAYLOCAL or 7DAYLOCAL.
  2. Home location: CIRC-DESK (adjust as needed for your library).
  3. Item cat1: TABLET (required).
  4. Item cat5: MSLGRANT (required).
Item information with the TABLET, MSLGRANT, and STAFF note fields highlighted

8. Add the serial number of the tablet in the  STAFF notes.
9. Click  Save.

Non-MSL Tablets

If cataloging an e-reader with pre-loaded content, please refer to the e-reader section of Standard Cataloging Procedures - Creating Temporary and Permanent Local Records.
When cataloging a tablet your library purchased, please add your holdings to the same tablet record described above but differentiate the kind of tablet in the call number, e.g. if the tablet is a Microsoft Surface instead of an iPad, you may choose the call number SURFACE #1 or similar. This will give patrons more information if you want the tablet to be discoverable / holdable in the online catalog.
To catalog a  non-MSL tablet:
1. Open the  Call Number and Item Maintenance wizard. (Cataloging module > Common Tasks toolbar > Call Number…).
2. Search  ALL libraries by  Title Control # a2669175.
3. Once the record displays, click  Modify.
4. Click the  Call Number/Item tab.
5. Click  Add Call Number.
6. Make sure your call number indicates the kind of tablet, e.g. IPAD, SURFACE, or similar.
7. Fill out the item info according to your library’s policy.
8. For  item cat1, select  TABLET. If you don't have this item category, please open a ticket. 
9. Once the record is complete, click  Save.

Fines and Fees on Tablets

The State Library prefers that libraries  do not charge overdue fines on the iPads. We recognize that local policy may mean the library needs to charge an overdue fine equivalent to what is charged for physical materials. For  Montana Shared Catalog libraries, fine options are:
  1. No fines
  2. 10 cents per day
  3. $1.00 per day

Replacements

If an MSL iPad is lost by a patron or not returned, please open a ticket to see if MSL has a replacement available.

More Information

For more information on iPads provided by MSL, including setup and support information, example circulation policies, FAQs, marketing materials, and more, see the  Montana State Library Hot Spot Lending Program page.

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