We strive to make library services and resources as easy and intuitive to use as possible.  But this can be a challenge given the diversity of our patrons, the variety of resources, and the ongoing evolution in library systems.  So we’re going to start posting tips on effectively using the library.  If you have a suggestion or a question for us on how the library works (or doesn’t), please let us know by commenting or by emailing me at ptully@wesleyan.edu.

This month, Jody Schenker of Olin Library contributes a post on requesting items that are not on the shelf:

Demystifying the online catalog’s Make a Request link

Most of the library’s collections are open to the Wesleyan students, faculty and staff, but not all.  Any member of the Wesleyan community can request an item that is not on the open stacks.

If the catalog indicates that an item you want is Available, you can find it in the stacks.  Exceptions include locations specifically designated as Closed Stacks, as well as Special Collections and Archives.  DVDs, CDs, and other media are also exceptions. For these types of materials, ask at the appropriate circulation desk.

If however, the catalog indicates that an item is Not available, there are a number of possibilities. By clicking on the record for the item, you will see the specific status that describes the situation. An item that is not available may be Charged, Renewed, Lost, Missing, Overdue, IN-TRANSIT,  At Bindery, Ordered, Received, or In Process. 

The Make a Request link in Wesleyan’s online catalog is a useful tool for expediting access to physical library materials that are not found on the shelf. (Internet content is accessible directly via a link in the catalog record.)  Depending on the status of the desired item (Ordered, Received, Charged, etc.), requests are handled differently.  Choosing an incorrect Patron Request option will delay filling the request, so it is important to understand how to match the item’s status to the appropriate Request option:

If an item is Charged or Renewed, it means someone has it out. To have the item recalled for you, choose Recall an Item.

If an item has a location of Special Collections & Archives or Storage, even if the status is Available, choose Request Item in SC&A or Storage.

If a Wesleyan item has a status other than Available (such as Lost, Missing, At Bindery, IN-TRANSIT, Overdue, etc.)  AND you’ve done a CTW catalog search and found that Connecticut and/or Trinity College have the same item with status Available, select CTW Book Request. In some cases, CTW Book Request may get the item you want faster than Recall an Item.  See Circulation or Reference staff for assistance if needed.

Items with a status of Ordered, Received or In Process may be obtained by choosing Request item Ordered/Received/In Process.  Please note that this should be your choice ONLY if an item has one of these statuses; otherwise your request will be delayed.

If you have looked for an item on the shelf with a status Available and have not located the item, choose Request a search for an Item Not Found. Library staff will attempt to locate the item you want and will notify you of the results of the search.

You may also wish to check out the Services for section on the Library’s home page. It gives additional information on requests and many other topics of interest to library users. Once again, if you are unsure which request to make for a specific item, please do not hesitate to ask Circulation or Reference staff for assistance.

Jody Schenker, Cataloger