From Cart to Reader: Shelf Ready Workflows with Gobi and Alma

Abstract

In many libraries, we’re faced with decreasing human resources in technical services, and an increasing focus on managing electronic resources. Purchases of print materials are decreasing, and it can be hard to justify the time and energy spent processing physical materials. Shelf-ready services can lift the burden on under-resourced departments, streamline the acquisition of new materials, and free up staff time to focus on more high-skill needs. But configuring library systems for shelf-ready workflows can be challenging: there are a lot of moving parts that need to be well-integrated to ensure a smooth ordering and receiving process. In this presentation, I’ll share practical advice for configuring Alma for shelf-ready workflows using Gobi and OCLC. You’ll learn how to map out your workflow, identify points of integration, and determine configuration options for each of the component systems. This presentation will offer advice for librarians and staff already using Alma who are considering adopting shelf-ready services and for those who are migrating to Alma and need to understand how to change their existing implementations. The presentation will demonstrate integrations with Gobi and OCLC, but may be adapted to work with other vendors.