Finding and using format information in Alma

Abstract

Understanding the various ways in which format information is structured in Alma can be complicated at first - especially for libraries migrating from systems that relied more on locally defined fields. Alma relies heavily on official MARC coding and terminology which (through no fault of Ex Libris) can at times be outdated or obscure. This session will aim to break down format information so it can be easily understood and useful for searching, faceting and record clean-up. Topics will include:

-Alma format facets (Bibliographic Material Type, Resource Type and Item Material Type);
-Detailed search indexes for locating format information through Create Sets and Analytics;
-How format information can be mapped and used in Primo
Ways to identify and tackle format cleanup projects in Alma.

After this session, attendees should have a better understanding of how format information stored in Alma can be accessed and managed - both for use by internal staff and by library patrons.