Stocktaking

==== //Let your bookcases and your shelves be your gardens and your pleasure-grounds.// ==== ====//Pluck the fruit that grows therein, gather the roses, the spices, and the myrrh.// ~Judah Ibn Tibbon ====

=**STOCKTAKING**=

__What is stocktaking__?
Stocktaking is an activity undertaken by libraries to determine whether records of current holdings correspond to the material held. It is a check on the availability of material listed in library records. It aims to assess the state of the collection, including any loss or damage. Note that stocktaking should be performed on all media in the collection.

__Reasons for stocktaking__:
1. Auditing purposes ‑ some libraries are required by regulations to stocktake eg. public institutions may be required to check that funds have been properly spent. 2. To check to ensure that holdings are accurately reflected in library records. 3. To ascertain loss through theft. There may be other reasons a library might have for stocktaking.

__Frequency of stocktaking__:
This varies depending on the __size__ of the library's collection, regulations and the __type__ of library. This may be required by regulations//.// The stocktake is only undertaken every few years. Some libraries carry out a stocktake on separate sections of the library at different times.
 * Annually**
 * Irregularly**
 * Divided stocktaking**

__Before stocktake__:
a) Publicise stocktake, request return of materials, inform borrowers library will be closed. b) Shelf check thoroughly ensuring every item in correct place. c) File all possible catalogue records. d) Check records of items away from the main collection, for example closed stack, department libraries, displays. e) Check card for items at binders, or awaiting repair. f) Make one sequence of charge records for items still on loan. g) Check shelf list records are all filed and are in correct order. h) Withdraw any records of items still not located (e.g. overdue), or those known to be missing.

Content from eLearning @ Swinburne2009 - Library Procedures - Process & Maintain Information Resources NB 2010