Item Type Table (Admin>Parameters>General - Sierra)

This documentation explains the functionality and data elements of the Item Type table

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Item Types Table Overview

The Item Types table allows the Marmot libraries to define up to 2000 unique codes for all library items (for example, books, journals, videos, CDs, etc.). These codes appear in the I TYPE fixed-length field in item records. The system uses item types in conjunction with patron types and locations to determine the loan rule for an item. They also appear as categories in circulation reports.

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Functionality Information

When viewing and modifying the Item Types table, note the following:

The Item Types table always contains exactly 2000 entries numbered 0-1999.

Changes to Other System Settings

Marmot modifies the Item Types table, and might need to update other tables and settings that use item types, such as:

• Loan Rule Determiner table

• Record templates for new item records

Data Elements

Entries in the Item Types table contain a single data element:

How Sierra Determines the Loan Rule for a Transaction

The system applies a loan rule when you perform the following types of circulation transactions:

• checking out an item

• placing a hold

• placing a held item on the holdshelf

• renewing an item

To select a loan rule for a transaction, the system does the following:

1. Determines the transaction location.

   • The system uses the LOCATION fixed-length field in the item record as the transaction location.

2. Finds the relevant entry in the Loan Rule Determiner table. To do so, the system searches the Loan Rule Determiner table from bottom to top until it finds an active entry that meets the following criteria:

   • The Location element includes the transaction location.

   • The Item Type element includes the item's I TYPE.

   • The Patron Type element matches the patron's P TYPE.

   • The value in the patron's BIRTH DATE field falls within the range specified in the Age Range element.

   • The entry is active.

3. Applies the loan rule indicated in the Rule Number element of the Loan Rule Determiner entry.

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