Cataloging Procedures

After purchasing books, you will need to add them to the Destiny catalog. This can be done in two ways.

• Preferred method - Books were ordered with shelf-ready processing and MARC records can be uploaded to the catalog using the file from the vendor.

  • Follett, Permabound and Children's Plus offer GCS schools free processing and shipping on all orders.

• Less preferred method - Books were purchased without shelf-ready processing and need to be cataloged manually.

All new-to-GCS SLMCs must complete a cataloging training before being given access to add books to the school catalog. Two training options are available:

• Three (3) hour in-person workshop on October 2 (register for the workshop here). 

• Self-paced Canvas course (enroll in the course here).

The two options will cover the same material and provide participants with basic cataloging skills focused on using Destiny. Experienced SLMCs may choose either option for a cataloging refresher, if needed. 

Before purchasing books, review the cataloging profiles with the vendor. It is important that all vendors have the same cataloging specifications on file to ensure consistency of barcode placement, barcode inscription (site name), call number prefixes, and any other site specific information.

• It is also helpful to review barcode ranges assigned to vendors periodically to prevent duplication and other cataloging issues.

• These cataloging specifications should also be followed for manual processing.

• Follow these Cataloging Standards and Circulation Type and Call Number Norms when setting up processing specifications or manually cataloging books. 

If you plan to use categories to track data on new books, set these up prior to beginning the process of uploading records or adding copies manually.

• Categories can be used to run reports on circulation data for a set of books.

  • Directions for creating copy categories

• Blank address labels for printing barcodes.

• Blank labels for printing spine labels.