WorkFlows - Ordering Barcodes
About
This article covers barcode formatting for MSC libraries and provides a non-exhaustive list of vendors.
Barcode Format
The MSC uses
Codabar barcodes. They're
14-digit numeric barcodes using
Check Digit Calculation Option Mod 10.
The digits indicate the following:
- Digit 1 = the type of barcode
- Patron barcodes start with a 2.
- Item barcodes start with a 3.
- Digits 2-5/6 = the institution
- The next 7/8 digits = the individual patron or item
- Digit 14 = the checksum
If your library chooses to change barcode vendors, or plans to purchase pre-barcoded materials, please ensure that you have the correct barcode symbology and the last digit of your current barcode order to avoid purchasing duplicate barcode numbers.
Past Orders - Watson Label Products
Most MSC libraries previously ordered through Watson Label Products – they likely already have your previous last barcode # and order specifications on file.
It no longer provides a cost savings to group libraries together for a batch order, so many libraries are exploring other barcode vendors (list below).
Through Watson Label you still get the minimum order discount as long as you order 10,000 at a time. It doesn't matter if they're item barcodes, patron barcodes, or a mix of both. As long as you hit a total of 10,000, it will get you the best price.
Make sure to tell them you want to continue the number sequence from the last order and let them know the name of your library as it reads on your labels.
When you contact them, be sure to include your shipping address and use your name as the PO number. Then they will ship the labels directly to you, saving shipping costs.
Contact information for the MSC's rep at Watson is as follows:
Caroline Rank, Customer Service Representative
314-493-9300 (Main)
314-493-9399 (Fax)
800-678-6715 (Toll Free)
Vendor List
This list is neither all-inclusive or indicative of an endorsement by the MSC for these vendors. It's included only as a helpful starting place.
Watson Label Products
10616 Trenton Ave
St. Louis, MO 63132
The minimum order is 5,000 – increments of 1000
See
Past Orders - Watson Label Products above for more information.
Symbology, Incorporated
7351 Kirkwood Lane North
Suite 126
Maple Grove, MN 55369
1-800-328-2612
Minimum order 3,000
The Library Store
PO Box 0964
Tremont, IL 61568-0964
1-800-548-7204
DEMCO
PO Box 8048
Madison, WI 53708-8048
1-800-962-4463
Reliance Barcode company
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