Directions+for+Shelf+Reading


 * Directions for Shelf Reading **
 * Shelf reading** is when you read every call number on a shelf to ensure that it is in the proper order.

1) Pick up the small brown cardboard box next to the sensitize/desensitize machine. Inside the box should be records of people who have shelf-read. On the records, there should be the LAST book’s call numbers, where it says “End” (ex. QH191.56).

2) Write your name and the book’s call number of the place you started under “Start”. Usually start with the next book from the last person. (ex. Jane Smith -Start: QH191.57)

3) Take the cardboard box with you during the shelf-reading.

4) Take the book off the shelf and open the back cover of the book, where the paper clips or pockets are located. If there is a slip, card, or any leftover paper, take it out and put it inside the brown cardboard box.

5) After you finish one shelf of books, double check if the books are in the correct call number order.

6) You should block as you shelf read. **Blocking** or edging is when you bring each book out to the end of the shelf so that the entire shelf is lined up with the edge of the shelf and all books are standing upright with a bookend placed at the end of each shelf.

**Properly Blocked Section**

**Section That Needs to be Blocked** 7) If oversized books do not fit on the shelf in a standing position, stand them on their spine. Tip: If the book is within 1 centimeter of the shelf above it, then it should be shelved sideways, standing on its spine.

8) Repeat steps 4 through 7.

9) After the person is done shelf-reading, come back to the circulation desk and shred any leftover slips of paper.

10) Make sure to write the last call number down on the records where it says “End.”

7/16/2007