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Student Worker Libguide

Training and Orientation Guide for HU Library Student Workers

Library of Congress Prezi Tutorial

Shelving Tips & Tricks

Consider the following when shelving books:

Is the item in the right place when compared to it's "neighbors?" 

  • If yes, continue reading.
  • If no, remove the item and determine where it should go.
    • Items that are only slightly out of place can be immediately reshelved. Example: M219 St82 before M219 M877.
    • Items that are "far from home" should be brought to the Circ Desk. Example: if M1507 P943 is found in the M1503 section, the item may have been previously marked as missing and should be checked in.

Is the call number label damaged or otherwise illegible?

  • If no, continue reading.
  • If yes, bring the item to the Circ Desk for processing.

Blocking

  • Books should remain upright and remain in line with each other on the shelves. This process is called blocking. 
  • Eliminate large gaps between books.
  • Shelf reading and blocking go hand in hand. Do them together.

Shelf Reading Tutorial

Watch the video below for a demonstration of how shelf reading should look (courtesy of UAA.)